While a landline still has its place, some people may be ready to ditch it. There are several landline options to a traditional home phone, including ATAs that require a one-time cost and service fees that are often significantly less than landline rates.
There are some potential drawbacks to dropping your landline, though. It can be more expensive to rely solely on your mobile phone, which may mean that 911 services won’t be as accessible in an emergency.
Reliability
Since landlines use wires, they are much more reliable than cell phones and the Internet. Especially during natural disasters and bad weather, phone lines remain functional while Internet and cell service can go down.
Keeping a home phone is important for senior citizens because it allows them to call emergency services when they need help. The reliable audio quality of a landline phone is also beneficial for those with hearing loss, as the sound can be easier to understand than a cell phone.
Many seniors can receive a free landline phone through the federal Lifeline Assistance program or local providers. You must have a low income and submit proof of residence to qualify. You must also be a U.S. citizen to apply. If you want free home phone service, check the National Verifier website to see if you are eligible. Then, compare the price of landline plans to ensure you get the best deal.
Safety
There’s a lot to consider before you ditch your landline. Mobile phones, VoIP services, and ATAs have advantages but with risks. Whether it’s spotty cellular coverage, an overabundance of spam and robocalls, or the difficulty of hearing on a phone if you have impaired hearing, a landline can make for a better home phone option.
Many people rely on their landline for 911 location service, especially those who have medical conditions like Parkinson’s that can interfere with their ability to use a smartphone or a home internet connection. And a reliable landline provides peace of mind that it will continue to work even when the power goes out. In addition, many home phone providers offer plans that bundle your home phone with other services, like TV and Internet, making it more affordable to keep the line if you’re using it regularly. You can also find affordable amplified phones to hear your calls more clearly.
Ease of Use
Many seniors prefer to use a landline phone because it’s easy to remember their number and billing information. It can also be easier to pay their bill. A traditional landline phone works without the Internet and can work during power outages, while smartphones require a cell signal.
Some providers offer free home phone services for seniors. These programs require yearly certification and proof of income to continue receiving free service.
Choosing the right home phone service for seniors can take time and effort. Consider their physical challenges, such as poor eyesight or difficulty with small buttons. Also, look for features that make it easy to find key functions, such as a photo dial phone, an intercom, and an integrated answering machine. Also, ensure the phone is compatible with T-coil technology if your loved one wears a hearing aid or cochlear implant. This feature can make it easier for them to follow conversations and communicate with friends and family.
Cost
While dropping your landline phone service can save you money, it’s important to consider all the potential costs involved. For instance, your cable provider might bundle your home phone with Internet or TV, so you may pay more than if you were to keep your landline and switch to a different provider for your other services.
Another cost to consider is the possibility that switching to a cell phone means you’ll need to upgrade your plan, which can be expensive. Plus, if you have impaired hearing, an amplified phone may be necessary to help you communicate effectively.