Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission when you purchase through our links, at no extra cost to you.
One of the most common questions senior travelers ask before an international trip: “How do I get internet on my phone while I’m abroad?” There are four main options, and the right one depends on your trip length, destination, and how much you’ll use your phone. Here’s the honest breakdown.
Option 1: eSIM (Recommended)
An eSIM is a digital SIM card you install on your phone before you leave. You purchase a local data plan from a provider like Airalo, Yesim, Saily, or GigSky, and your phone connects to local networks at local rates.
Cost: $5–$40 for 7–30 days of data
Speed: Full 4G/5G speeds
Setup: Requires unlocked phone; install takes 5 minutes at home
Best for: Most international travelers, especially trips of 5+ days
Option 2: Carrier International Roaming
Most U.S. carriers (T-Mobile, AT&T, Verizon) offer international day passes that let you use your existing plan abroad for a daily fee.
Cost: $5–$15/day depending on carrier
Speed: Usually throttled after a daily data limit
Setup: No setup required — just turn it on in your carrier app
Best for: Trips of 1–3 days where simplicity matters more than cost
Option 3: Portable WiFi Hotspot Rental
You can rent a pocket-sized WiFi device at the airport (or your destination) that connects multiple devices simultaneously.
Cost: $8–$15/day rental
Speed: Good in urban areas
Setup: Pick up at airport on arrival; return before departure
Best for: Travelers sharing data with a companion, or those without eSIM-compatible phones
Option 4: Hotel and Public WiFi
Free WiFi is available at most hotels, cafes, and airports worldwide. However, relying solely on hotel WiFi is risky for two reasons: (1) it’s not always available when you need it, and (2) public networks are security risks.
Cost: Free (included with hotel stay or at cafes)
Security risk: High — always use a VPN on public networks (NordVPN)
Best for: Supplemental connectivity, not primary
Cost Comparison: 14-Day Trip to Europe
Option
Estimated Cost (14 days)
eSIM (Airalo or Saily)
$15–$30
T-Mobile international day pass ($5/day)
$70
Verizon TravelPass ($10/day)
$140
Portable WiFi rental ($10/day)
$140
Hotel WiFi only (free)
$0 (but limited and insecure)
Bottom line: For a 14-day trip, an eSIM costs $15–$30 vs. $70–$140 for carrier roaming. The savings alone make it worthwhile. For the full setup guide, see: Phone Setup for International Travel.
Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission when you purchase through our links, at no extra cost to you.
An eSIM (embedded SIM) lets you add a local data plan to your phone without swapping physical SIM cards. You buy the plan online, install it in minutes, and have working internet from the moment you land in a foreign country. For seniors traveling internationally, it’s one of the most practical upgrades you can make before any trip.
Here’s how the top four eSIM providers compare in 2026.
Airalo is the largest eSIM marketplace, with coverage in over 190 countries and regional plans that cover entire continents (Europe, Asia, Latin America) with a single purchase. The app is clean, the installation process has been simplified with on-screen guidance, and customer support is responsive via chat.
Best plan: Europe Regional 10GB / 30 days — typically $18–$22. Covers 39 European countries with one plan.
Yesim — Best for Unlimited Data
Yesim stands out for offering unlimited data plans in select countries — ideal if you plan to stream video, use video calling, or rely heavily on GPS navigation. Yesim also includes a built-in VPN feature, which adds a layer of security when connecting to public networks.
Best plan: Global Unlimited plan for stays in a single country — check current pricing on their site.
Saily — Best Budget eSIM
Saily offers some of the lowest prices in the eSIM market with solid global coverage. Setup is simple — scan a QR code or install directly through the app. Great for senior travelers who need basic navigation and messaging without heavy streaming.
GigSky — Best for Remote or Cruise Travel
GigSky specializes in difficult-to-reach destinations where other eSIM providers have gaps — Pacific islands, remote parts of Africa, and cruise port countries. If your trip involves unusual destinations, GigSky is worth checking first.
How to Install an eSIM (Step-by-Step)
Confirm your phone is eSIM compatible (iPhone XS and later; Samsung S20 and later; most newer Androids)
Confirm your phone is unlocked (call your carrier if unsure)
Purchase your eSIM plan online from your chosen provider
Install via QR code (scan with your phone camera) or directly through the provider’s app
In your phone settings, set the eSIM as your “data” line and keep your existing SIM for calls
Test at home — open a browser and confirm the eSIM data is working
Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission when you sign up through our links, at no extra cost to you.
Your smartphone is your map, your translator, your boarding pass, and your lifeline when traveling abroad. But without the right setup before you leave, you could land in a foreign country with no internet, no navigation, and a roaming bill that costs more than your hotel. This guide walks you through every step — in plain language, no tech jargon.
Step 1: Check If Your Phone Is Unlocked
An unlocked phone works with any carrier worldwide. A locked phone only works with your U.S. carrier — and their international roaming fees can be steep ($10–$15/day with T-Mobile, $5–$10/day on plans).
To check: Call your carrier and ask. If you’ve paid off your phone and have been a customer for over a year, they’ll unlock it for free. You need your phone to be unlocked before installing an eSIM from a third-party provider.
Install the eSIM via QR code or directly in the app
Set the eSIM to activate on arrival (it will auto-connect when you land)
Important: Do this at home where you have reliable WiFi. Don’t try to install an eSIM at the airport — it’s stressful and you may not have a connection.
Step 4: Download Offline Maps
Even with an eSIM, there will be moments without signal — underground, in rural areas, or during network outages. Download offline maps before you go:
Google Maps: Search your destination, tap the three dots, select “Download offline map”
Maps.me: Excellent detail for walking in city centers
Step 5: Install a VPN
Hotel WiFi and airport networks are frequent targets for hackers. A VPN (Virtual Private Network) encrypts your connection so no one can intercept your data. NordVPN is our top pick — it works on phones, tablets, and laptops, and takes about 30 seconds to activate. Turn it on whenever you use public WiFi.
Step 6: Notify Your Bank and Credit Cards
Log into your bank app and set a travel notice (most banks have this under settings)
Call the number on the back of each credit card and report your travel dates
Enable transaction alerts on all accounts so you’re notified of any charges instantly
Step 7: Download Your Travel Apps
Airline app (for boarding passes and flight status)
Hotel app (Hotels.com app for reservations and receipts)
Google Translate (download the language packs for offline use)
Step 8: Test Everything Before You Leave
✅ Confirm eSIM is installed (check Settings → Cellular → Data Plans)
✅ Open offline map and confirm your destination is saved
✅ Turn on VPN and confirm it shows a foreign server connection
✅ Log into airline and hotel apps
✅ Charge all devices to 100% the night before departure
FAQ: Phone Setup for International Travel
What is the best way to get internet on my phone when traveling internationally?
An eSIM is the best option for most seniors. Buy a plan from Airalo or Yesim, install it before you leave, and you’ll have data the moment you land — no SIM swapping needed.
Will my US phone work in Europe?
Most modern smartphones work on international networks, but carrier roaming fees add up fast. An eSIM typically costs $15–$30 for 30 days of European data vs. $150–$450 in carrier roaming fees for the same period.
Do I need a VPN when traveling internationally?
Yes. Public WiFi at hotels and airports is a common target for hackers. NordVPN encrypts your connection in 30 seconds and costs less than $4/month.
Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission when you book through our links, at no extra cost to you.
Your health preparation is the most important part of any senior travel checklist — and the most commonly overlooked. This guide covers what to do before you leave, what to pack, and how to protect yourself in a medical emergency abroad.
6–8 Weeks Before Travel: Pre-Trip Health Tasks
✅ Schedule a pre-trip doctor visit. Review all medications, get refills, and discuss your destinations. Ask specifically about food/water safety and altitude if relevant.
✅ Visit a travel medicine clinic for destination-specific vaccinations (typhoid, yellow fever, hepatitis A/B, rabies if remote travel).
✅ Review your travel insurance coverage. Medicare pays almost nothing outside the U.S. Purchase a plan with emergency evacuation coverage — compare at VisitorsCoverage or Insubuy.
✅ Check if your medications are legal at your destination. Some common U.S. medications (certain ADHD drugs, painkillers, anxiety medications) are controlled or banned in other countries.
Medications Packing Checklist
✅ All prescriptions in original labeled bottles
✅ Extra supply: at least 2 weeks beyond your trip length
✅ Typed medication list with dosages, generic names, and your doctor’s contact
✅ Doctor’s letter for injectable medications or controlled substances
✅ ALL medications in carry-on luggage (never in checked bags)
✅ Insulin or temperature-sensitive medications: request a cooling pouch
Over-the-Counter Health Kit
✅ Pain reliever (ibuprofen or acetaminophen)
✅ Antacid / heartburn medication
✅ Antidiarrheal (especially for developing country travel)
✅ Antihistamine for allergic reactions
✅ Motion sickness medication (Dramamine) if needed
✅ Sunscreen SPF 50+
✅ Insect repellent (DEET-based for tropical destinations)
✅ Blister pads and moleskin
✅ Bandages and antiseptic wipes
Mobility & Comfort
✅ Compression socks for flights (reduces DVT risk)
✅ Lightweight walking shoes with good ankle support
✅ Collapsible cane or walking poles if needed
✅ Seatbelt extender if needed (request from airline)
Emergency Health Information Card
Create a laminated card to keep in your wallet with:
Blood type
Known allergies (especially drug allergies)
All medical conditions
Emergency contact name and phone number
Primary physician name and phone
Travel insurance policy number and 24/7 emergency line
What to Do If You Need Medical Care Abroad
Call your travel insurance emergency line first — they can direct you to an approved provider and arrange payment directly (so you don’t pay out of pocket).
Contact the nearest U.S. Embassy for a list of English-speaking physicians.
For non-emergencies, international pharmacies can often recommend local medical care.
Forgetting a key travel document can mean denied boarding, refused entry at customs, or a scramble at a foreign hospital without insurance information. This checklist covers every document you need — and tells you exactly what to do with digital backups.
Identity & Entry Documents
✅ Passport — valid with 6+ months remaining after your return date
✅ Visa — if required by your destination (check travel.state.gov)
✅ Global Entry / TSA PreCheck card if enrolled
✅ International Driver’s License (required for car rentals in many countries — needed even if renting through Auto Europe or EconomyBookings)
Booking Confirmations
✅ Flight itinerary (printed and on your phone)
✅ Hotel or rental confirmation — keep confirmation numbers accessible. Use Hotels.com, Booking.com, or Vrbo
Your carry-on bag is your lifeline when traveling. If checked luggage gets lost — and it happens more often than airlines admit — everything in your carry-on needs to keep you safe, comfortable, and connected until your bags arrive. For seniors, this is especially important because medications, medical devices, and critical documents should never be checked.
The Golden Rule of Senior Travel Packing
Pack your carry-on as if your checked bag will never arrive. If it’s irreplaceable or medically necessary, it goes in your carry-on.
Medications & Medical Items (Carry-On Only)
✅ All prescription medications — original labeled bottles
✅ At least a 2-week extra supply beyond your trip length
✅ Doctor’s letter for controlled substances (required by some countries)
✅ Portable medical devices: CPAP, hearing aids, glucose meter
Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission when you book through our links, at no extra cost to you.
Traveling internationally after 55 is one of life’s great pleasures — but it requires more preparation than a domestic trip. This detailed checklist walks you through every step, from passport check to post-arrival connectivity, organized by when you need to complete each task.
8 Weeks Before Departure
✅ Check your passport expiration. Many countries require 6 months of validity beyond your return date. Renew immediately if needed (allow 8–12 weeks for standard processing).
✅ Arrange airport transfers. Pre-booking eliminates the scramble on arrival. Use Welcome Pickups (Europe, Americas, Asia) or GetTransfer for a wider global network.
✅ Book day tours and activities. Popular museums and attractions sell out weeks in advance. Browse Tiqets, Klook, or KKday.
✅ Reserve a rental car if driving abroad. Book through Auto Europe (best for Europe) or QEEQ for competitive global rates.
✅ Register with the U.S. Embassy via the STEP program (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program).
✅ Set up AirHelp for automatic flight compensation claims — AirHelp monitors your flights and files claims on your behalf if delays occur.
1–2 Weeks Before Departure
✅ Buy your eSIM. Install it before you leave so data activates the moment you land. Top picks: Airalo (widest country coverage), Yesim (unlimited plans), Saily (budget-friendly), GigSky (strong for remote areas). Read our full comparison: Best eSIM for International Travel.
✅ Download offline maps for your destinations.
✅ Activate NordVPN on your phone and laptop — essential for safe use of hotel and airport WiFi. Get NordVPN here.
✅ Notify your bank and credit cards of your travel dates and destinations.
✅ Pack all medications in carry-on luggage (never in checked bags).
✅ Photocopy your passport and store a digital copy in the cloud.
Day of Departure
✅ Passport and visa (if applicable)
✅ Travel insurance card with emergency phone number
✅ Local currency or confirmed ability to withdraw from ATMs at destination
FAQ: International Travel for Seniors
What documents do I need for international travel as a senior?
A valid passport, any required visas, travel insurance documentation, prescription medication records, and a list of emergency contacts. Some countries require vaccination proof.
Is there a travel checklist internet tool I can use?
Apps like TripIt organize travel documents digitally. For internet connectivity while traveling, install an eSIM from Airalo or Yesim before you leave — you’ll have working data the moment you land.
Whether you’re heading to Paris for the first time or making your tenth trip to Mexico, leaving anything off your pre-travel checklist can turn a dream vacation into a stressful ordeal. This master guide covers every category — from documents and phone setup to insurance, transportation, and activities — with links to our full in-depth guides for each topic.
Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you book or purchase through our links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend services we believe are genuinely useful for seniors.
Bookmark this page. Print it. Use it every time you travel.
✅ Travel medical insurance purchased before departure
✅ Know your policy’s emergency medical evacuation coverage
✅ AirHelp account set up for flight disruption protection — register at AirHelp
✅ Photo of your passport stored in cloud (Google Photos / iCloud)
✅ U.S. Embassy location saved for each destination country
✅ Family member has a copy of your itinerary
Frequently Asked Questions
What should seniors pack for international travel?
Seniors should pack all prescription medications with extras, copies of medical records, a travel insurance card, comfortable walking shoes, a portable phone charger, and an eSIM or international data plan. See our international travel checklist for a detailed breakdown.
How far in advance should seniors prepare for a trip?
Plan 6–8 weeks ahead for international travel. This gives you time to renew your passport, arrange insurance, get vaccination records, purchase an eSIM, and compare deals on flights and hotels.
Do seniors need travel insurance?
Yes — Medicare does not cover most international medical care. Compare plans at VisitorsCoverage or Insubuy.
Most people join AARP for the savings — but the organization’s most powerful work happens in courtrooms, congressional hearings, and community centers across America.
Article Contents
Ask most people why they joined AARP, and they’ll mention the restaurant discounts or the hotel deals. That’s completely understandable — those savings add up fast, especially for people age 50 and older living on fixed or transitional incomes.
But if discounts were all AARP offered, it wouldn’t be the most powerful advocacy organization for older adults in the United States—with nearly 38 million members and a dedicated policy team working in Washington every single day.
This article breaks down the five most impactful ways AARP goes to bat for people age 50+, why those efforts matter to your wallet and your rights, and how to make sure you’re getting full value from your membership.
🛡️Not yet an AARP member?
Membership starts at around $16/year and includes access to every advocacy program, legal resource, and benefit described in this article — plus hundreds of member discounts.
1. AARP Lobbies Congress to Protect Social Security and Medicare
This is AARP’s most consequential work and the one most members never see. AARP employs one of the largest and most experienced policy and government affairs teams in Washington, D.C., focused exclusively on legislation that affects people age 50 and older.
When lawmakers propose changes to Social Security benefit calculations, retirement age requirements, or Medicare cost-sharing rules, AARP is at the table—testifying before committees, publishing independent analysis, and mobilizing its membership to make their voices heard. In recent years, AARP’s advocacy has been credited with helping defeat proposals that would have reduced Social Security cost-of-living adjustments and with supporting provisions allowing Medicare to negotiate prescription drug prices for the first time in program history.
What this means for your retirement income
For people aged 50 to 65 who are still years away from claiming Social Security, having a well-funded watchdog organization protecting the program’s integrity is enormously valuable—even if it’s invisible. For people age 65+ already receiving benefits, AARP’s fight against benefit cuts is a direct financial protection.
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2. AARP Provides Free Legal Help and Consumer Protections
Legal fees are one of the most financially devastating unexpected costs for people on fixed incomes. AARP addresses this with several programs designed to level the playing field.
AARP Legal Counsel for the Elderly (LCE) — Provides free legal services to low-income people age 60+ in Washington, D.C., covering housing, benefits, consumer protection, and advance directives.
AARP Foundation Litigation — AARP’s legal arm files lawsuits to fight age discrimination in employment, housing, and healthcare on behalf of older Americans nationwide.
AARP State Offices — Each state has a dedicated AARP team that monitors state-level legislation affecting older adults, from property tax exemptions to nursing home regulations.
For people age 50+ navigating issues like age discrimination in the workplace, predatory lending targeting older adults, or elder financial abuse, these resources provide real-world protection that goes far beyond any discount program.
According to the FBI, people age 60 and older lose more than $3.4 billion annually to fraud — and that figure is almost certainly undercounted given how rarely financial exploitation of older adults is reported.
AARP’s Fraud Watch Network is one of the most comprehensive free resources available for older Americans to protect their financial security. It includes:
A free fraud helpline staffed by trained volunteers and professionals
Weekly scam alerts delivered by email or text message
A scam-tracking map showing active fraud schemes in your zip code
Fraud prevention workshops offered online and in communities nationwide
Resources specifically tailored for caregivers helping protect elderly parents from financial exploitation
For people age 55+ who are increasingly targeted by sophisticated phone and online scams, this service has documented, measurable financial value. AARP members and non-members can access many Fraud Watch resources for free, but membership ensures you receive proactive alerts and priority helpline access.
4. Free Tax Prep for People Age 50+ Through AARP Foundation Tax-Aide
AARP Foundation Tax-Aide is the largest free, volunteer-run tax preparation program in the United States. Every year, more than 3,500 locations nationwide—in libraries, community centers, churches, and senior centers—offer no-cost tax help to people age 50 and older, with special expertise in issues relevant to this age group:
Social Security taxation rules and how to minimize taxable benefits
Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) from IRAs and 401(k)s
Pension and retirement income reporting
Medicare premium deductions and medical expense thresholds
Property tax credits and senior exemptions available by state
Professional tax preparation for a return of similar complexity at H&R Block or a CPA typically costs between $200 and $500. AARP Tax-Aide provides this service free of charge, with IRS-certified volunteers who understand the specific tax challenges facing people age 50+.
For people asking if AARP is worth it for people in their 50s, the Tax-Aide program alone often covers the annual membership cost many times over in a single tax season.
5. AARP Caregiver Support: Resources for the 53 Million Americans Caring for Older Adults
More than 53 million Americans provide unpaid care to a family member or friend—and the majority of those caregivers are themselves adults age 50 and older, often simultaneously managing their own retirement planning, health needs, and employment.
AARP’s caregiving resources are among the most comprehensive available anywhere, free of charge:
AARP Caregiving Resource Center — Guides covering home safety assessments, dementia care, long-distance caregiving, and navigating nursing home and assisted living decisions
AARP Care Guide — Step-by-step tools for organizing medical records, legal documents, and financial information for aging parents
AARP Caregiver Support Line — Free telephone counseling and referrals to local resources
AARP Advocacy for Paid Family Leave—AARP actively supports federal and state legislation to expand paid family and medical leave rights, which disproportionately benefits older workers in caregiving roles
For people age 50+ who are “sandwiched” between caregiving for aging parents and supporting adult children, these resources address one of the most emotionally and financially taxing challenges of this life stage.
AARP’s 5 Core Advocacy Areas at a Glance
AARP Program Area
Who Benefits Most
Potential Dollar Value
Social Security & Medicare Advocacy
All people age 50+
Protects thousands/year in retirement income
Legal Counsel & Age Discrimination Fighting
Workers 50–65, low-income seniors 60+
$200–$500+ in avoided legal fees
Fraud Watch Network
All people age 50+, especially those online
Prevents average $30K+ fraud loss
Tax-Aide Free Tax Preparation
People age 50+ with retirement income
$200–$500 per filing season
Caregiver Support Resources
The 53M Americans caring for older adults
Reduces professional consultation costs
Is AARP Worth It? Here’s the Bottom Line
At roughly $16 per year — less than $1.50 per month — AARP membership is one of the lowest-cost, highest-value decisions available to people age 50 and older. The advocacy work alone, protecting Social Security and Medicare for tens of millions of Americans, would justify the cost even if every other benefit disappeared.
Add in free tax preparation, fraud protection, legal resources, caregiver support, and yes — the member discounts on prescriptions, travel, insurance, and dining — and AARP membership consistently delivers returns that are multiples of its cost.
Whether you’re 50 and just starting to think about retirement, 62 and navigating Social Security claiming decisions, or 75 and managing complex Medicare coverage, AARP has resources specifically designed for where you are right now.
Ready to Get Full AARP Benefits?
Join over 38 million members who have access to AARP’s advocacy programs, free services, and member savings — all for about $16/year.
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Frequently Asked Questions About AARP Membership
What does AARP actually do beyond offering discounts?
AARP is a nonprofit advocacy organization that lobbies Congress on Social Security, Medicare, and prescription drug pricing on behalf of people age 50+. It also provides legal services, tax assistance, fraud protection resources, caregiver support programs, and an extensive member benefits package — of which discounts are just a small part.
How does AARP fight for Social Security benefits?
AARP employs a full-time lobbying and policy team in Washington, D.C. that advocates for protecting and expanding Social Security benefits. They publish annual reports on Social Security’s financial health, educate members on legislation that could affect their benefits, and mobilize millions of members to contact elected officials when key votes arise.
Is AARP membership worth the cost for someone age 50 to 65?
Yes. At roughly $16 per year, AARP membership pays for itself quickly through savings on prescriptions, auto and home insurance, hotels, and restaurants. More importantly, members gain access to AARP’s legal and financial advocacy work that protects retirement income and healthcare rights — benefits with real dollar value far exceeding the membership fee.
Does AARP help with Medicare issues?
AARP actively advocates for Medicare rights and publishes comprehensive guides to help people age 50+ navigate Medicare enrollment, understand plan differences, and avoid costly coverage gaps. AARP also supports legislation to cap Medicare out-of-pocket costs and championed Medicare drug price negotiation provisions.
What free services does AARP offer to members?
AARP members can access free tax preparation through AARP Foundation Tax-Aide, free legal resources through AARP Legal Counsel for the Elderly, free fraud prevention tools through the AARP Fraud Watch Network, free caregiver support via the AARP Caregiving Resource Center, and free financial planning tools through AARP Money Map.
For caregivers watching a loved one age can be an emotional and confusing time. It will prove to be even more challenging for people experiencing signs of dementia, including memory loss, disorientation, confusion, and difficulty communicating.
According to Alzheimer’s Disease International, someone develops dementia every three seconds. As a caregiver, you can help this by recommending some lifestyle changes like quitting smoking and exercising; they also have medications for memory loss that you can try. Of course, checking with your doctor is the best course of action.
If you care for a person experiencing these symptoms, loneliness often goes along with aging, and having a lifeline to everyday life is needed. You can help by upgrading their cell phone.
Here are a few phones you can check out.
The RAZ Memory phone is the only phone designed for those with dementia or Alzheimer’s; the basic approach was to make the phone easy to use, take out the complication of new cell phones, and give it one function: to make calls. The phone has a 6.3-inch display, which also helps people who have vision loss. It comes with headphones a headphone jack at the top with a slot for an SD card on the side. The battery is not replaceable or removable.
The one screen has room for six contacts with pictures and the name of the contact below. If you need more contacts, there is an option for up to 24 contacts. The caregiver controls this function. There is a button to call 911 or to call the RAZ Emergency Service. The user doesn’t have to push any digits; press the picture of the contact they want to reach, and it calls. There is no menu system, no apps, no text messaging. The volume button is disabled; the screen doesn’t ever “lock” or “go to sleep.” An easy-to-use online portal manages the phones’ features; the caregiver can access the signal strength and battery amount if they cannot reach the user.
RAZ Emergency Service includes an optional emergency service; the service is intended for cases where individuals with dementia imagine emergencies and call 911 repetitively. With this new service, emergency calls can be directed to an emergency dispatch agent rather than 911. The agent will know that the caller suffers from memory loss and will determine whether to contact 911 guided by this knowledge. Also, text messages will be sent to up to three (3) caregivers, providing these designated individuals the opportunity to cancel the emergency call, avoiding an unnecessary call to 911. The service costs either $79.99 annually or $7.99 per month with an activation fee of $19.99.
Price and Wireless Service
There are two phone versions; one version costs $309 and works on T-mobile and wireless resellers who use T-mobile services, like Mint Mobile, Metro by T-mobile, Ting, and Simple Mobile. It does not work on Verizon, AT&T, or wireless providers who resell their service.
The other version of the $349 and works with AT&T, Verizon as well as T-mobile. This phone will work on Cricket, Consumer Cellular, Straight Talk, NET10, and Metro by T-mobile. The phone comes with a free SIM card and three free months of Mint Mobile service.
Jitterbug Smart
The Jitterbug Smart is simple to use; one screen “smartphone” can also be used as a medical alert device with the dedicated urgent response button, giving you access to 24/7 live agents on-hand with varying service levels.
This device offers a phone, camera, a web browser, with no physical buttons, provides the right amount of technology.
Cost: $74.99 plus activation and monthly plan
Jitterbug Flip
The perfect phone for someone with dementia to stay in touch, and they are compatible with hearing aids as well. They have large physical buttons that make them easy to operate. It allows for voice commands to make calls and send messages by speaking.
Some people may use this phone for its medical alert capabilities; Lively’s health and safety features have a dedicated urgent response button that connects to a monitored service with agents who will help with anything needed. For example, if the user is lost, the agent can help, or if required, contact the emergency contacts or alert first responders if necessary.
Using the Lively app, caregivers can keep track of their loved ones and have peace of mind they will recieve notifications about emergency calls, battery levels, and location information. The Jitterbug Flip can help a loved one stay independent and safe at the same time.
Cost: $49.99, plus activation and monthly plan
Snapfon ezTWO3g
The SnapFon phone has an SOS button that will sound a 120 dB alarm and send a text message to a preset list of contacts. They also have an additional subscription service – sosPlus Mobile Monitering, starting at $15/month for access to trained first responders that have experience with medication, health needs, family contacts, and physician information. Other service features include the ability to track the user and make a plan if the user is non-responsive.
Cost: $29.99 plus activation fees and service plans
Conclusion
For dementia patients, they might experience some problems when using a regular phone. This is why several recommended phones can use to keep in touch with their friends and families. These phones are equipped with excellent audio output, a large screen display, easy-to-read buttons, and fantastic simplicity to make it easier for seniors to communicate through cellphones. Some of the best cellphones for dementia patients have been discussed above.
