When I had my folks living with me, I had a landline for their benefit. Both were highly intelligent people, but there was no way they’d have been comfortable with cell phones.

Not fully understanding a new technology can create social isolation. That is the last thing our elders need.

In addition, some VoIP providers may not be compatible with emergency alert services.

Try connecting to 211nh.org to see if there are communication programs for which your relative may be eligible, without having to change providers.

Best of luck!

If they have internet you can do a voip service.

Google is free. Just buy a cheap used smartphone and install google voice. It will work just like a landline. You don't need to buy cell service (it won't work without wifi, obviously).

If you have to attach an old standard phone because gramma can't read the screen, then majicjack sells a phone adapter and telephone number for a few bucks a month.

My personal take on this is that I'd keep paying the $50. Are there cheaper options? Sure, but is it worth the stress of taking away something from someone who is now in their twilight years? That depends on your/their financial situation.

Google Voice is free, and if you're a younger person on a tight budget I could see you going this way. But an elderly person? No shot. The furthest I'd reach would be to go to a mobile phone on a Mint Mobile plan. Mint Mobile will run you $15/month, but you'll end up paying full price for a phone.

Have you tried contacting Verizon to see if they offer a lower cost service? Measured use, or maybe a senior discount of some kind?

Fortuitous timing! I got an email from Verizon this evening about their participation in the federal Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) which is designed to provide affordable phone service to those less fortunate who struggle to pay for services. It can help cover existing lines of service so if they qualify they would keep the service and phone they have now, just pay less. Details can be found at www.ACPbenefit.org.

if they don't use a lot of minutes and just need it for the ability to connect, i am sure a pre-paid cell phone would be reasonably cheaper.

Have you tried contacting Verizon to see if they offer a lower cost service? Measured use, or maybe a senior discount of some kind?

Try ooma or magic jack or one of those voip services. If she has internet they are close to free once set up