For some seniors, staying updated with new technology and it’s fast-paced upgrades can get difficult. But just as seniors adjusted to the (old) flip phones in their time, they can be guided to be able to easily use new flip-phone models with better features and functions. What may seem like “too many features” may just come in handy in times of need. Here are some tips for seniors when buying a phone and which popular services work best for them.
Get a phone with a big screen
One of the benefits of new phones these days is the big screen that lets any user easily easily read and access information. Seniors must make sure that the phone is comfortable enough to fit and use in the hand. The font size options must be comfortable enough for reading contact information and typing numbers or sending out text messages.
Save money on older models
Getting a one- or two-generation old model is not a problem. Getting such a model can save one hundreds of dollars while still getting the essential features. Ideally, seniors must opt for the newest model only if there are some extraordinary and essential features that they must absolutely have!
Research and review
Seniors should check with those around them to see which flip phones other people are using. Asking for reviews and seeing if the particular model is suitable for their needs can go a long way. Seniors must also try using a demo model and see they can understand and access the features with ease. There is a wide variety of flip phones in the market, and one can find works best for them with a little research.
Check for essential specs
Essential phone features for seniors include Bluetooth, voice-to-text compatibility, hearing aid compatibility, emergency and SOS services, and compatibility with a chosen service carrier. These features can make the phone an important communication tool in times of emergency and to ensure connectivity with friends and family.
Choose the right carrier
Getting the right carrier for the phone is a crucial step. Depending on where the senior lives, the carrier decision can be taken accordingly. Some popular carriers are T-Mobile, Republic Wireless, and AT&T. AT&T even has a Senior Nation Plan that gives users aged 65 and above 200 anytime minutes, 500 weekend-and-night minutes, and unlimited mobile-to-mobile minutes without long-distance and roaming charges. This plan works well with flip-phone users and costs about $30 monthly with additional minutes being charged at $0.45/minute. Seniors can get call AT&T personnel or chat with them on their website.
Popular models
Some of the popular AT&T models for seniors are as follows:
Cingular Flip IV
It has a good screen size and the keypads are spaced properly to make sure typing is not difficult. This phone is Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enabled as well.
Alcatel SMARTFLIP™
The phone has up to 4GB internal space and supports 4G LTE data speeds.
Sonim XP3
It comes with an 8GB internal memory with 5 megapixel camera with LED light.
Some other models to look out for would be the LG B470 Flip Phone, Cingular Flip 2, and ZTE Z223 Flip Phone.
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FAQ’s on Social Security account answered
Read moreCreating a ‘my Social Security’ account not only helps you plan for your retirement, but it also has numerous practical benefits too. Prime among them are requesting for a Social Security card replacement and checking the status of your application/ appeal. Creating ‘my Social Security’ account is the first step in the process of applying for a Social Security card replacement online.
In case you’ve lost the card, a replacement may be needed in few instances where you need to show the card. In most cases, as long as you remember the number and quote it correctly, it’s enough. If you feel a replacement card is a must, ssa.gov website has all the pertinent information on procuring one.
To apply for a replacement card:
- The first step is getting the necessary documents in order. You are required to provide a document that proves your identity (driver’s license, passport or any state issued ID proof). All documents have to be originals or copies certified by the issuing agency.
- Fill the application (SS-5) and along with the original documents, send it by mail to your local office.
- The replacement card is delivered within ten business days.
Pertinent facts on card replacement:
- Your Social Security card can be replaced up to 10 times in your lifetime and up to 3 times in a year.
- These limits do not apply to legal name changes and modifications in immigration status.
- If you can prove that the card is needed to prevent a significant hardship (victim of domestic violence or identity theft), the limit is not applicable.
In growing number of states, a replacement request can be placed online as long as you’re not seeking a name change or any other change in your card. It is a safe and convenient process, and the information you enter is protected. Built in features can confirm your identity and detect fraud. Once the account is set up, just follow the simple steps listed to apply for a replacement card.
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Sjogren’s Syndrome- Causes and Symptoms
Read moreWith the progress in medical science, people are hoping that one day, even the most formidable of the diseases can be cured. When we know what causes that particular disease, only then can an antidote for the same be developed. There are still a plethora of diseases the cause of which is yet to be determined. However, though we are supposed to lead our lives with such long-term diseases, we can definitely take measures to control it.
Sjogren’s syndrome is one such disorder that the affected person has to learn to coexist with for their lifetime.
What is Sjogren’s Syndrome?
Sjogren’s Syndrome is an autoimmune disease that affects an individual when their immune system goes haywire and starts attacking the normal cells in the body instead of the bacteria and viruses that pose as the real threat. It is a lifelong disease, and since there is no proper method to cure Sjogren’s Syndrome completely, people resort to methods to adapt and coexist with the disease. Usually, Sjorgen’s Syndrome accompanies other autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus.What are the causes of Sjogren’s Syndrome?
Though the causes of Sjogren’s Syndrome remain a mystery, it has been identified that some bacteria or virus is known to trigger this disorder. It disrupts the functioning of the immune system, causing the white blood cells to attack healthy cells especially in the glands that produce saliva and tears. Even though the cause of Sjogren’s Syndrome remains unknown, the symptoms of the same become more prominent unless they are treated.What are the symptoms of Sjogren’s Syndrome?
- As mentioned earlier, Sjogren’s Syndrome causes the immune system to attack healthy cells and glands that produce saliva. As a consequence of the same, the production of saliva is affected. The individual suffering from Sjogren’s Syndrome experiences dryness in the mouth. The mouth has a chalky feeling, and he may experience trouble chewing and swallowing food. Also, the dryness of the mouth results in yeast infections.
- Sjorgen’s Syndrome also affects the glands that produce tears. This will leave the eyes dry. Dry eyes are more prone to burning and itching sensation. Unless this condition is treated with eye drops and other medications, it will affect the person’s cornea. If left untreated for quite some time, it can have an adverse impact on one’s vision.
- The effect of Sjogren’s Syndrome isn’t limited to the mouth and eyes; it can affect other parts of the body such as throat, skin, lips or nose. Also, since the immune system wages war against the glands in the body, there are chances that the glands in the face and neck might swell up.