Cell Phone Plans for Senior Citizens in Canada
Best Plan for Travelling Seniors
Freedom mobile
50 Gb – Unlimited Calls
Canada – US
Choosing a cell phone plan is never easy, which is why we created this page to guide seniors, or a helper, in the process of selecting a cell phone plan. Data, networks, calling, etc.
We know it can be confusing, so we created four different profiles most seniors may relate to. If, as a senior or helper, you don’t find the right profile, feel free to contact us and provide your valuable feedback
Author: Jonathan Villeneuve, User Experience and Technology Specialist
Some plans require you to be 55+, while others are regular plans that will fit needs a given senior profile. In the case of age restrictions, legal documents to prove age will be required. See plans below.
Cell Phone Plans for Highly Active Seniors - BYOD
For highly active seniors, age is just a number. Most highly active seniors still don’t feel they belong in the “old people” category and believe they have similar needs to younger generations.
Seniors in this category are 55 years or older and:
- Spend time on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, etc.
- Enjoy making video calls with their smartphones.
- Use apps on their smartphones, including games, financial platforms, news, etc.
Virgin plus
Canada Wide
40 Gb
Unlimited
BYOD
Freedom mobile
Canada-US
50 Gb
Unlimited
BYOD
Rogers
Canada Wide
75 Gb
Unlimited
BYOD
55 $
per month
initial
0$
Link not supplied by Rogers
Cell Phone Plans for “Snowbird” Seniors - BYOD
For frequent-traveling seniors, it’s crucial that the selected phone plan maintains the provider’s phone coverage while traveling to avoid paying extra charges for roaming.
You belong in this category if:
- You spend more than 1 month per year traveling in America outside of Canada.
- You enjoy making video calls through your smartphone.
- You use apps on your smartphone, including games, financial platforms, news, etc.
Freedom Mobile
Canada-US
50 Gb
Unlimited
BYOD
Freedom mobile
Canada-US
75 GB
Unlimited
BYOD
Rogers
Canada-US-Mexico
175 Gb
Unlimited
BYOD
95$
per month
initial
0$
Link not supplied by Rogers
Cell Phone Plans with 0 Data for Traditional Seniors - BYOD
For traditional seniors, a cell phone mainly represents security. A cell phone is needed but not as a primary communication device—just in case things don’t go according to plan. If you’re an independent type, paying for unlimited calls and a lot of data each month can be a waste of money.
You belong in this category if:
- Your fixed landline is your main device.
- You never use your phone to watch videos, play games, or make video calls.
- You only need a cell phone to feel safe when not at home.
Koodo
Canada Wide
0
Unlimited
BYOD
Telus
Canada Wide
0
Unlimited
BYOD
Canada Wide
0
Unlimited
BYOD
Cheapest Cell Phone Plans for Frugal Seniors - BYOD
For seniors who like to get the most for their buck, a cell phone is mainly for calling, occasional texting, and some social media interactions. Why pay for a phone plan that will be used only at a fraction of its capacity?
You belong in this category if:
- You use your cell phone to talk to relatives a few times a month.
- You use social media moderately.
- You don’t need much data or prefer using the internet via Wi-Fi.
Freedom Mobile
Canada Wide
Unlimited
BYOD
Freedom Mobile
Canada-US
10 Gb
Unlimited
BYOD
Koodo
Canada Wide
3 Gb
Unlimited
BYOD
Did you know that calling 911 is free?
What to Consider When Choosing a Cell Phone Plan for Seniors
1 · Cell phone Provider Brands :
Why are some providers more suited for seniors than others?
Some providers, like Fizz or Public Mobile, offer more advantageous prices but do so by not having customer service team members reachable by phone and relying instead on online forums. This approach allows providers to save on labor costs, which is then reflected in lower plan pricing for customers. However, this also means that if you’re not tech-savvy, there will be no customer service agent available to assist you. If relying on customer service is essential, make sure to choose a phone plan from the following providers: Bell, Rogers, Telus, Videotron, Virgin Plus, Freedom Mobile, Koodo
2 · New Device vs. BYOD:
Why BYOD May Be More Suited for Seniors?
BYOD stands for Bring Your Own Device, which means a plan without any cell phone device. The BYOD option is often the most advantageous if:
- You are satisfied with your current device.
- The device you need is not available from the provider.
- Special features designed for seniors, such as an emergency one-click button, are needed.
Unless you’re a highly active senior, meaning you’re living much like you did in your early 50s, BYOD cell phone plans may be the best option since specialized devices for seniors are often not offered by providers.
For instance, hearing aids primarily use Bluetooth technology. If hearing compatibility is needed, make sure to choose a cell phone with Bluetooth, as some seniors prefer old models of traditional flip phones, which often do not have Bluetooth technology. That’s why we recommend purchasing from our selection of devices for seniors
3 · Personal Needs:
How to make sure you get what you need without overpaying?
Look at the 4 profiles we propose and select the one that suits you best, or perform a full search by answering a few questions on our search tool.
4 · Cell Phone Network Coverage:
How to ensure the plan you choose has good coverage where you stay?
You can search your address to see if you should have decent coverage with a specific provider using our cell tower map tool. The map will show you all the cell phone towers near the address you entered. If you see cell phone towers from the provider you are interested in near the address you entered, any plan from that provider should offer you sufficient network coverage. See PlanHub’s Cell Phone Tower Coverage Map.
5 · User Reviews:
How to know what other users think of a Provider You’re Interested In?
Browse the reviews left by verified users on PlanHub to see what customers have to say about the provider you are interested in. View Canadian Mobile Carriers Reviews.
Using hearing aids? Make sure you have Bluetooth
Cell Phone Devices for Seniors
artfone 4G Volte - $64.99
Main advantages:
- Easy to use and read
- Emergency and safety features
- Compatible and affordable
From the buyers' reviews:
- Reported as being used by satisfied seniors over 90 years old
- Recommended for people with disabilities or Alzheimer’s
- Hands-free option is great for people with mobility issues
artfone C1+4G - $ 64.99
Main advantages:
- User-Friendly Design for Seniors
- Enhanced Safety Features
- Exceptional Battery Life
From the buyers' reviews:
- Reported as an ideal phone for the elderly
- People are satisfied with the emergency button on the back
- High satisfaction rate among reviews
artfone 4G Flip - $ 69.99
Main advantages:
- Dial easily with big buttons
- SOS button
- Durable design
From the buyers' reviews:
- This brand provides customer service to help with setup.
- Very few buttons to memorize.
- Suitable for seniors as a backup phone when out of the home.
Corded Phone Devices for Fixed Landlines for Seniors
Geemarc CL100 Big Button Phone for Seniors - $ 69,98
Main advantages:
- Hearing aid compatible
- Big buttons
- Simple and durable
From the buyers' reviews:
- Sound adjustment for hearing-impaired seniors is appreciated.
- Reported as being used by legally blind elders.
- Many positive comments about the loudness adjustment for seniors.
SMPL Hands-Free Dial Photo Memory Corded - $ 79,99
Main advantages:
- Six Photo Memory Keys
- Big Buttons for Easy Dialing
- Visual Flasher
From the buyers' reviews:
- Well appreciated by elderly people
- Photo buttons appreciated for ease of use
- Recommended for people with dementia/Alzheimer’s
FAQs · Frequently Asked Questions About Seniors' Phone Plans
Are there free seniors' cell phone plans in Canada?
What is the best cell phone plan for seniors?
What is the cheapest cell phone plan for seniors?
What are the best affordable phone plans for seniors?
Many providers, such as Bell and Rogers, offer special discounts for seniors. These plans usually focus on essential features like unlimited calls and texts, with fewer data options to keep costs low.
Do seniors really need a lot of data?
Not always. Many seniors use their phones mainly for calls and texts, so a low-data plan is often sufficient. If they browse the web or use apps occasionally, a limited data plan should cover their needs.
Why are unlimited calling plans recommended for seniors?
Unlimited calls are great for staying in touch with family and friends without worrying about extra fees. It offers peace of mind, especially for those who prefer calling over texting or using apps.
Are there phone plans specifically designed for seniors?
Yes, many providers offer senior-friendly plans with simple pricing structures and features like unlimited calling, making it easier for seniors to manage their plan.
Do seniors need to sign long-term contracts?
Not necessarily. Many senior plans offer flexibility without long-term commitments, so seniors can switch plans as their needs change without penalties.