The Importance of Senior Independence and Safety

As our loved ones age, their independence and safety become paramount factors in maintaining a high quality of life. Seniors, like anyone else, deserve to live with dignity, freedom, and the assurance that they are protected from potential risks. Let’s delve into the significance of senior independence and safety, exploring the common concerns faced by seniors and their families. Independence is a fundamental aspect of personal well-being. It encompasses the ability to make choices, engage in activities that bring joy, and maintain a sense of autonomy. For seniors, preserving their independence allows them to retain their identity and remain active participants in society. It enables them to continue pursuing hobbies, engaging in social interactions, and feeling a sense of purpose. Safety is equally crucial for seniors, as it provides peace of mind for both them and their families. Seniors face unique challenges such as the increased risk of falls, which can lead to severe injuries and a decline in overall health. Medical emergencies are also a concern, as they may require immediate attention and response. Additionally, the potential for isolation and loneliness can impact their emotional well-being, further underscoring the need for a safe and supportive environment. Falls are one of the most common concerns among seniors and their families. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), millions of older adults are treated for fall-related injuries each year, with many leading to hospitalizations and long-term consequences. Ensuring a safe living environment and providing appropriate assistive devices can significantly reduce the risk of falls and their associated complications. Medical emergencies can arise unexpectedly, necessitating immediate access to medical assistance. Conditions such as heart attacks, strokes, and sudden illnesses can have life-threatening implications if not addressed promptly. Having a reliable system in place to connect seniors with emergency services and provide swift medical attention is vital to their well-being. Isolation and loneliness are significant concerns for many seniors, particularly those who live alone or have limited social interaction. The absence of regular companionship and support networks can lead to feelings of depression, anxiety, and decreased overall life satisfaction. Addressing these concerns involves fostering connections, promoting social engagement, and providing resources to combat isolation. Recognizing the importance of senior independence and safety is the first step toward ensuring a fulfilling and secure life for our aging loved ones. By addressing concerns such as falls, medical emergencies, and isolation, we can create an environment that supports their well-being and empowers them to thrive. Through innovative solutions and supportive services, we have the opportunity to enhance the lives of seniors, allowing them to maintain their independence while having access to the necessary safety measures.

WHO IS GREATCALL?

GreatCall is a medical alert system provider that integrates most of its services with smartphone use and even sells Jitterbug smartphones and call plans to seniors. They have been in business since 2006 and market to active aging adults. They claim to be the original easy to use senior friendly cell phone. When compared to other medical alert services, which primarily focus on stand-alone equipment reserved exclusively for medical alert use, this is a fairly modern choice. They currently have over 900,000 customers and all of their customer service is based in the United States. GreatCall purchased Lively in December 2015, a connected health platform that includes more traditional stand-alone medical alert devices as well as advanced features and a modern look for active seniors seeking emergency response protection. For retirees and caregivers, they also have a suite of healthy , medical, and safety apps. GreatCall has over 1,000 employees and is based in Carlsbad, California. Some of GreatCall’s services, such as their well-known 5Star Urgent Response, only require a smart phone, and you can even use your current smart phone with their medical alert cell phone app. Their equipment is contemporary in appearance, and their sales representatives are not overbearing. We like that they have all of the latest equipment, including cellular phone service, GPS, activity tracking, drug reminders, and fall detection. Best Buy purchased GreatCall in August 2018. Best Buy is one of the major big box retailers that has been investing in technology for the elderly and will be able to market and sell GreatCall’s products in their stores. In addition to Greatcall, Best Buy is investing in other home health products such as TytoCare which is technology that helps to manage your family’s healthcare at home such as personal EKG monitors, smart thermometers and an at home medical exam kit for online doctor visits. GreatCall will keep their headquarter location and call centers in Carlsbad, CA and Reno, NA. [content-egg module=CjLinks next=1]

What we enjoy – Greatcall review

When it comes to cellular plans, GreatCall doesn’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. You can choose an individual plan that best suits your requirements. GreatCall has options for you, whether you want unlimited data for streaming on the go or a cheaper plan with no data at all. Plus, any plan you select includes senior-friendly features for added security and support. GreatCall understands that seniors have unique needs when it comes to technology. That’s why they have developed user-friendly devices that cater specifically to these requirements, empowering seniors to maintain their independence with ease. Let’s explore how GreatCall’s user-friendly devices, featuring larger buttons, simplified interfaces, and intuitive features, enhance communication and enable seniors to stay connected with their loved ones and emergency services.

User-friendly design

One of the standout features of GreatCall’s devices is their consideration for seniors’ vision and dexterity. The devices are designed with larger buttons that are easy to see and press, reducing the risk of accidental keystrokes. This aspect is particularly important for individuals with visual impairments or reduced motor skills, allowing them to operate the devices confidently. The larger buttons also enhance accessibility for seniors who may struggle with fine motor control or have arthritis. Moreover, GreatCall devices employ simplified interfaces that eliminate unnecessary complexity. The user interfaces are thoughtfully designed to be intuitive, ensuring seniors can navigate through menus and features with minimal effort. By removing unnecessary complications, GreatCall enhances usability, making it easier for seniors to engage with their devices and access the functionalities they need. Enhancing communication is another vital aspect of GreatCall’s user-friendly technology. The devices offer various communication options, such as phone calls, text messaging, and even video calls, enabling seniors to stay connected with their family, friends, and support networks. By providing accessible communication channels, GreatCall devices help alleviate feelings of isolation and keep seniors connected to their loved ones, no matter the distance.

GreatCall uses the best network in the country

GreatCall mobile uses the Verizon network to provide coverage for its customers. Lucky for you, Verizon covers 70% of the country and is the most reliable network available. GreatCall mobile operates as a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO). Which is a fancy way of saying that GreatCall uses Verizon’s network instead of having its own network. GreatCall provides excellent service on Verizon’s network, so you shouldn’t have much issue making a call or sending a text (as long as you’re not from the remote areas of Alaska). The only catch with having an MVNO is that your phone can be deprioritized. Since GreatCall is essentially borrowing Verizon’s network, you might run into a situation where your service drops out in a crowded area. This happens because Verizon gives priority to its own customers over GreatCall customers. Unless your church bingo games have hundreds of people present, you probably won’t experience deprioritization very often. [content-egg module=CjLinks next=1]

Included health and safety add-ons

You get the simple health and safety package included with your GreatCall cell phone plan. 5Star Urgent Response and Brain Games are included in the basic package. The 5Star Urgent Response service allows you to connect with trained agents who can assist you in any situation by simply pressing a button. Have you recently tried to lift something and thrown out your back? Press the button to request assistance. Perhaps you’ve suddenly become light-headed and want to double-check that everything is in order. You can get assistance by pressing the button. Plus, children and grandchildren will be glad to know there’s an additional set of eyes and ears looking out for their Nana. Brain Games is also installed on your handset. These simple games can help seniors maintain their mental health and memory. Plus, it’ll keep you occupied while you’re stuck in line behind the person with a million coupons at the grocery store. [content-egg module=CjLinks next=1]

Health and Wellness Solutions

GreatCall understands the importance of health and wellness in the lives of seniors. They have developed a range of innovative solutions that empower seniors to take proactive control of their health and manage their well-being effectively. Let’s explore the health and wellness offerings provided by GreatCall and how they contribute to a better quality of life for seniors. One of the standout features of GreatCall’s health and wellness solutions is their medication reminder system. Medication management can be a complex task, especially for seniors who may have multiple prescriptions. GreatCall’s medication reminder feature ensures that seniors never miss a dose. Through timely notifications and reminders, seniors are prompted to take their medications as prescribed, reducing the risk of missed doses or incorrect medication usage. This feature provides peace of mind for both seniors and their caregivers, ensuring that medications are taken as scheduled. In addition to medication reminders, GreatCall offers health tracking features that allow seniors to monitor their vital signs and overall well-being. With the help of wearable devices or smartphone apps, seniors can track their physical activity, heart rate, and sleep patterns. This information provides valuable insights into their health trends and allows them to make informed decisions about their lifestyle and activities. By promoting proactive self-care, GreatCall’s health and wellness solutions empower seniors to become active participants in managing their health. Seniors can set personal health goals and track their progress over time. This sense of ownership over their well-being encourages seniors to make healthier choices, such as increasing physical activity, improving sleep habits, and adopting healthier eating habits. By integrating health tracking into their daily routines, seniors can take control of their health and make positive changes that contribute to a better quality of life. Moreover, GreatCall’s health and wellness solutions provide a sense of reassurance to seniors and their families. Caregivers can remotely monitor their loved ones’ health data through the caregiver app, allowing them to stay informed about their overall well-being. This real-time information enables caregivers to provide support and intervene if any concerning patterns or irregularities are detected. This connectivity fosters a stronger bond between seniors and their caregivers, promoting a collaborative approach to health management. It is worth noting that GreatCall’s health and wellness solutions are designed with a user-friendly interface, ensuring that seniors can easily navigate the features and functionalities. The devices and apps have intuitive layouts and clear instructions, making them accessible to individuals of varying technical abilities.

The medical warning system on your phone

GreatCall offers four different mobile medical alert system options (they have several other legacy options, but only actively promote these four personal emergency response systems on their website). Please note that in order to use Verizon’s service, you must have Verizon cell coverage in your region (you do not have to have a Verizon data plan to utilize their urgent response service).

1. Lively Mobile Plus

This is the simplest medical alert device they offer. No landline or other equipment is needed with GreatCall Lively Mobile Plus, and you can speak directly to emergency assistance through the device. Available with optional fall detection utilizing accelerometer technology. The latest edition includes enhanced GPS technology, 4G LTE integration, improved battery life and loudest amplified speaker to date.

2. Lively Wearable

With a single push of a button, you’ll be linked to GreatCall’s emergency response team via a smartphone app. This option essentially transforms your smartphone into an emergency response device. You will need a smartphone with cellular service and an Android 7.0/iPhone iOS 11 or later operating system (this device uses Bluetooth, data, and GPS location from the smartphone). Your smartphone will automatically call an urgent response agent when you press the wearable medical alert button. Fall detection is included when you purchase the preferred plan, which is similar to other life alert reviews of other types of products. The button is also stylish and water resistant. The latest version also includes a daily step counter and health tips for seniors.

3. Jitterbug Smart2

A cellular smart phone with an app that offers a mobile medical alert service. This mobile device has a 5.5-inch screen, big icons, a simplified menu and text, a long-lasting battery, voice typing, and an emergency response app .

4. Jitterbug Flip

A cellular flip phone with a mobile service that includes a medical alert button. When you need a basic phone with built-in emergency assistance, this is an easy-to-use option. Larger buttons, a bright screen, a powerful speaker, a voice dial, and a magnifier with flashlight are all included. [content-egg module=CjLinks next=1]  

Heartwarming Stories: Seniors Embracing Independence and Peace of Mind with GreatCall

Introduction: When it comes to empowering seniors to live independently and with peace of mind, GreatCall has touched the lives of many. Through their innovative products and services, they have provided seniors with a renewed sense of freedom, safety, and emotional well-being. Let’s explore some inspiring stories of seniors who have experienced the transformative impact of GreatCall’s features, highlighting the emotional peace of mind they provide.

1. John’s Fall Detection Hero: John, an active and adventurous senior, had a minor mishap while hiking. Thankfully, his GreatCall device’s fall detection feature sprang into action, immediately alerting emergency services. Within minutes, help arrived, and John’s family was notified. John attributes his speedy recovery and peace of mind to GreatCall’s reliable fall detection, knowing that he is always connected to assistance whenever he needs it.
2. Mary’s Lifeline in the City: Mary, a vibrant urban dweller, loves exploring her city’s bustling streets and vibrant culture. With her GreatCall smartphone, she feels secure knowing that she can contact emergency services at the touch of a button. During a recent incident when she misplaced her wallet, Mary used her device to navigate public transportation and reach out to her family for support. GreatCall’s reliable connectivity and quick access to assistance have given Mary the confidence to continue her city adventures fearlessly.
3. Sarah’s Connected Community: Sarah, an avid reader and lover of art, had been feeling isolated after relocating to a new city. GreatCall’s caregiver app transformed her experience. Sarah’s family members were able to remotely assist her with daily tasks, send her virtual hugs, and even plan virtual book club meetings with fellow seniors. The app’s easy-to-use interface and the sense of belonging it fostered brought back joy and companionship to Sarah’s life, proving that staying connected is vital for emotional well-being.
4. George’s Peace of Mind in Every Step: George, a retiree who enjoys staying active, experienced a minor health scare during one of his morning walks. Thanks to GreatCall’s health tracking feature, his device alerted him to irregular heart rate patterns. George promptly sought medical attention, averting a potential emergency. The knowledge that he can monitor his health and receive timely notifications gives George and his family a sense of peace and confidence, allowing him to continue his active lifestyle with reassurance.

Connecting Seniors to a Supportive Community

GreatCall understands that a sense of community plays a vital role in promoting the well-being and happiness of seniors. Through their caregiver app and other initiatives, GreatCall goes beyond providing technology solutions and creates a supportive environment that fosters connection, engagement, and reassurance. The caregiver app offered by GreatCall serves as a digital lifeline, connecting seniors with their loved ones and providing a platform for constant communication. This app enables caregivers, whether family members or friends, to stay connected with their loved ones in a seamless and convenient manner. It allows for real-time updates, messaging, and sharing important information, ensuring that seniors are never far away from the care and support they need. Heartwarming stories abound of seniors who have experienced a renewed sense of connection and reduced feelings of isolation through GreatCall’s services. Take the case of Mrs. Anderson, an elderly woman living alone. Before discovering GreatCall, Mrs. Anderson often felt isolated and disconnected from her family. However, with the caregiver app, she found a new lease on life. Through the app, she could easily reach out to her children, grandchildren, and close friends, sharing updates about her day, exchanging photos, and even video chatting. This newfound connection brought joy and a renewed sense of purpose to her daily life. Mrs. Anderson no longer felt alone; she felt embraced by the love and care of her family, even from a distance. Another inspiring example is Mr. Johnson, an active senior who enjoys participating in local community events. Unfortunately, his mobility had started to decline, limiting his ability to attend social gatherings. However, with GreatCall’s services, Mr. Johnson found a way to stay engaged with his community. The caregiver app allowed him to join virtual meetups, connect with like-minded individuals, and even participate in online classes and workshops. By staying connected to his community, Mr. Johnson felt a renewed sense of belonging and purpose, despite physical limitations. He was able to share his experiences, offer advice, and receive support from a network of individuals who understood and appreciated his journey. These heartwarming stories exemplify the transformative power of GreatCall’s approach to fostering a sense of community among seniors. By leveraging their caregiver app and providing avenues for virtual connection, GreatCall creates an environment where seniors can maintain meaningful relationships, share experiences, and receive the love and support they deserve. In addition to the caregiver app, GreatCall often organizes community events, workshops, and educational programs specifically tailored to seniors’ interests and needs. These events bring seniors together, encouraging social interaction and the formation of new friendships. Whether it’s a book club, a fitness class, or a group discussion on a particular topic, GreatCall actively nurtures a supportive community that extends beyond the digital realm. Through the power of technology and a commitment to human connection, GreatCall bridges the gap between seniors and their loved ones, ensuring that they never feel alone or isolated. By fostering a sense of community, GreatCall enables seniors to thrive, providing the emotional support and reassurance they need to embrace each day with joy and confidence.

Greatcall customer service & Support

GreatCall takes great pride in delivering exceptional customer support and service to ensure that seniors and their families have a seamless experience with their products and services. Their commitment to customer satisfaction is evident in various aspects of their support system.

1. Knowledgeable Representatives: Greatcall customer service team comprises highly knowledgeable representatives who are trained to address the unique needs and concerns of seniors. These representatives understand the challenges that seniors may face while using technology and are adept at providing patient, clear, and helpful guidance. Whether it’s assistance with device setup, troubleshooting, or understanding features, GreatCall’s representatives go the extra mile to ensure that customers feel supported and empowered.
2. Responsive Assistance: GreatCall prides itself on providing responsive assistance to its customers. When seniors or their family members reach out for help, whether through phone or online channels, GreatCall’s customer support team promptly attends to their queries and concerns. They understand the importance of timely assistance, especially during critical situations or emergencies, and work diligently to provide the support needed.
3. Accolades and Recognition: GreatCall has received numerous accolades and recognition for their dedication to customer satisfaction. They have been recognized as a leader in customer service within the senior-focused technology industry. Awards and certifications from reputable organizations showcase their commitment to delivering exceptional support and service. These accolades serve as a testament to the company’s continuous efforts to meet and exceed customer expectations.
4. Continuous Improvement: GreatCall continually strives to improve its customer support and service. They actively gather feedback from customers to understand their needs better and identify areas for enhancement. This feedback-driven approach allows them to adapt and refine their support processes, ensuring that they consistently deliver a positive customer experience.

The company’s dedication to customer satisfaction is reflected in the numerous accolades and recognition they have received. Lively GreatCall’s customer support is a true testament to their mission of providing seniors with the resources they need to live independently and confidently.

GreatCall review: Is this medical alert system good?

GreatCall Mobile offers potentially life-saving features for senior citizens, so in that sense, it’s a pretty amazing wireless plan. The fact you can click a button when you feel like something is certainly wrong brings some peace of mind. Thankfully, GreatCall also offers solid coverage on top of everything else thanks to Verizon’s network. The combination of user-friendly design, simplified interfaces, and accessible communication options makes GreatCall devices invaluable tools for seniors seeking independence and connection. By addressing the specific needs of seniors and creating technology that is easy to use and understand, GreatCall empowers older adults to embrace technology confidently, breaking down barriers and enhancing their overall quality of life. GreatCall’s commitment to user-friendly technology serves as an inspiration, reminding us of the transformative power of technology when it is tailored to meet the needs of specific demographics. As we celebrate the impact of GreatCall’s devices on seniors’ lives, we are reminded that technology can bridge gaps, foster connections, and empower individuals to lead fulfilling, independent lives, regardless of age. Plans: You can essentially build your own data plan with how many options you have. You can choose anywhere between a 750-minute plan or unlimited data, call, and text. The only issue is that you can’t bundle plans together in a family plan. Coverage: GreatCall uses Verizon’s mobile network, which just so happens to be the best in the country. You may run into deprioritization from time to time, but generally your coverage should feel reliable. Overall: GreatCall makes a lot of sense for older folks who want a simple device with lots of helpful features. [wpsm_column size=”one-half”][wpsm_pros title=”PROS:”]

• Simple menu.
• Big, bright display with large text.
• Backlit keypad.
• Quick Response Time
• No Equipment Costs
• No Shipping Fee or Other Hidden Fees
• Free App to Assist Caregivers
• One-of-a-Kind Service that Connects With Doctors/Nurse Practitioners
• Sleek and Contemporary Design
• Location Detection for Both the Response Center and Caregivers

[/wpsm_pros][/wpsm_column][wpsm_column size=”one-half” position=”last”][wpsm_cons title=”CONS:”]

• No internet or email access.
• No microSD card slot.
• Additional services cost extra.
• Two-Way Talk Not Included on Device
• Design of Battery Case Could Be Better
• Fall Detection Not Practical

[/wpsm_cons][/wpsm_column]

FAQ

What kind of download speeds can I expect with GreatCall?

Verizon’s network offers some of the fastest internet speeds around. The average download speed on the Verizon network is 20.9 Mbps.In other words, you shouldn’t have to spend much time waiting for things to load while streaming or browsing the internet.

Where can I get the battery for the Lively Wearable2 that I need?

The CR2450 can be found in most pharmacies and hardware stores. The battery is also available for purchase online.

What are the names of the physicians and nurses I may consult with at Urgent Care?

FoneMed, a private company that provides telehealth nursing services, collaborates with Urgent Care. MDLive is the company that hires doctors.

How do caregivers get access to the caregivers’ app, GreatCall Link?

GreatCall Link is available for free download on the App Store and Google Play.

What is the return policy for GreatCall?

GreatCall will refund purchases if they are returned in “like new” condition and returned within 30 days of the purchase date. Equipment fees, activation fees, and charges for the first month of service are all refundable. Shipping fees are nonrefundable, and a $10 restocking fee will be applied.

Is there a guarantee from GreatCall?

Yes, your Lively Wearable2 comes with a one-year limited warranty when you buy it. The protection starts the day you buy it. [content-egg module=Amazon template=custom/grid3] [content-egg module=CjLinks next=1]   Sony A7 RIII review- a very nice evolution of the previous model    ]]>