Best Smartphone for Assistive Features

The Jitterbug Smart3, the latest of Lively’s smartphone devices, is one of the best smartphones on the market for seniors due to its comprehensive list of assistive features. These include easy access to emergency services through the integrated medical alert system, a connection with a live operator and voice command options to make using the device easy for seniors who struggle with fine motor skills. This smartphone also features a variety of apps designed specifically with seniors in mind, making using and adapting to newer technology more intuitive. 

With the Jitterbug Smart3, Lively offers seniors an affordable communication option that pairs a standard cell service package and medical alert system in one device and on one bill.

Pros:

  • User can download apps from Google Play store
  • HD calling using 4G LTE for better call quality
  • Simplified interface prominently displays apps that are most relevant to seniors
  • Volume adjusts from low to super-high, and there’s a speakerphone option

Cons:

  • Limited feature set compared to average Apple or Android smartphone
  • Requires purchase of a data plan

Overview of the Jitterbug Smart3

Lively, the manufacturer of the Jitterbug Smart3, is a cell service provider that focuses on seniors. Every device and plan is targeted to offer the most value to retirees. Affordable plans and reliable service are the keys to Lively’s success. All Lively devices, including the Jitterbug Smart3, operate on the Verizon network to give users the most reliable calling service in the country. For seniors who only use a nominal amount of data, Lively offers flat rate packages with automatic tier upgrades whenever the package limit is reached. It also has unlimited talk, text and data plans for those who enjoy using apps or streaming videos via their phones. 

How Much Does a Jitterbug Smart3 Cost?

The Jitterbug Smart3 retails for $149.99, making it a very affordable option for a smartphone, particularly when compared with flagship devices with price tags that can easily exceed $1,000. When selecting the Jitterbug Smart3, it’s important to remember that there’s an activation fee of $35 for new devices. The most affordable monthly service plan option that includes data starts at $24.99 per month before any taxes and fees. This plan is for unlimited talk and text with 500 megabytes of data. To add unlimited data, customers pay an additional $25 per month. Adding the medical alert system can increase the monthly cost by anywhere from $19.99 to $34.99 per month, depending on the services needed. The maximum monthly fee for the highest tier of the medical alert system along with unlimited data is $84.98 before taxes and fees. 

Full Review of the Jitterbug Smart3’s Features

Lively designed the Jitterbug Smart3 to work well for seniors at various stages of health and mental acuity. The standard hardware includes all touchscreen operation, barring the volume and power buttons, but the software features larger fonts, brighter lighting and other options designed to make it easier for seniors to use. 

Perfectly Pocket-Sized

The Jitterbug Smart3 is nearly 6 inches long and about 3 inches wide, making it compact enough to fit into most pockets. The locking screen function helps prevent accidental dialing while the phone is tucked away. 

Onboard Medical Alert System

Lively’s devices, including the Jitterbug Smart3, are the only cell phones on the market that combine a medical alert system with standard phone functionality. Seniors can call, text, use apps and contact EMS services through a single device and pay only one bill. Lively’s medical alert system also offers the options to connect directly with caregivers through the app, get in touch with urgent care or activate geolocation services when needed. 

Life Assistant Included

When signed up for the highest tier of the Lively medical alert system and Health & Safety plan, seniors get access to a personal operator who acts as an assistant. This assistant can help seniors make reservations, schedule appointments, find addresses and provide other convenience services. 

Works for the Hearing Impaired

Seniors who regularly use hearing aids can also use the Jitterbug Smart3 with little to no issues. The device is M4/T4 rated, which is the highest level of compatibility on the market for use with hearing aids. 

Accessible With Voice Commands

The Jitterbug Smart3’s voice command option is great for use when driving and seniors who struggle to hit small buttons, allowing them to send texts or make calls entirely hands-free. 

Bigger and Brighter Screen

Seniors who struggle with small text or in low-light situations may benefit from the brighter-than-average screen and larger font sizes used on menus. App buttons are also larger, so seniors can see images in more detail. 

Who Should Consider the Jitterbug Smart3?

Seniors on a Budget

The Jitterbug Smart3 is one of the most affordable smartphones on the market with a suggested retail price of $149.99. Sales and rebates often drop the price even further, making it a cost-effective choice for seniors on a budget. 

Tech-Savvy Seniors

Seniors who are comfortable using smartphones and tablets will have no trouble adapting to the Jitterbug Smart3. It uses standard icons and features, making it easy to use for any senior who has experience with touchscreen devices. The Jitterbug Smart3 combines the ease-of-use of a traditional phone with the convenience of a touchscreen. 

What Are People Saying About the Jitterbug Smart3?

While there may be a learning curve for those unfamiliar with the Android operating system, most reviewers comment that the Jitterbug Smart3 is user-friendly, affordable and gets the job done. The battery life, which is estimated at 10 hours for standard use, gets plenty of positive feedback, and the Operator Services feature enabled with the highest tier Health & Safety package is a major plus for most. With Operator Services, seniors can ask to be connected with a friend, make an appointment or obtain tickets to a local event.

The Lyft integration is another feature that’s mentioned frequently. Seniors don’t need to download and set up another app to access the Lyft ride-sharing service. Instead, Lyft is seamlessly integrated with Lively, allowing seniors to add the cost of a ride directly to their monthly cell phone bill. The compact size and larger-than-average display settings also get thumbs up from users who often struggle and squint with standard phones. 

FAQ

Who Has the Best Cell Phone Deals for Seniors? 

Determining the best cell phone deals for seniors is complicated. Seniors who use lots of data may have different needs than those who only use talk and text services. Consumer Cellular and Lively are two of the most affordable options. Click here for our full answer to this question.

What Is the Simplest Cell Phone for Seniors?

Standard phones regularly top the list of the simplest cell phones for seniors. These older models don’t have touchscreens and rely on traditional buttons to control the phone. However, smartphones offer significant increases in functionality and many contain entire suites of accessibility features. Click here for our full answer to this question.  

What Is the Least Expensive Cell Phone Plan for Seniors? 

The least expensive cell phone plan for seniors varies depending on the included services. Unlimited talk and text are typically very affordable, whereas adding unlimited data plans can dramatically increase costs. The addition of services such as a medical alert system also increases the cost of a plan. Click here for our full answer to this question.    

What Is the Best Unlimited Cell Phone Plan for Seniors? 

Location is a key aspect of the best unlimited cell phone plan for seniors. Some service providers have better coverage in certain areas. One provider may focus on crystal-clear calling while a competitor may offer a larger data network. Be sure to check coverage maps for the local area when making a decision. Click here for our full answer to this question. 

What Is the Best Cell Phone for Seniors with Dementia?

For seniors with dementia, the best cell phone is one that’s intuitive to use and includes services that can help in case of wandering. Geolocation, voice commands and large, easily seen icons are all important features that can benefit seniors with dementia. Click here for our full answer to this question.