The Jitterbug is marketed as a “I fallen and cant get up” device for the elderly when it should be marketed as “I want a mobile phone to make phone calls without all that extra crap” device. I’m not sure what the carrier plans cost for the Jitterbug, but unlimited voice should not cost more than $20 a month.
I think they’ve got a prepaid plan now as well, which is what I’d use.