Understanding Consumer Use of Wireless Telephone Service
Understanding Consumer Use of Wireless Telephone Service
Understanding Consumer Use of Wireless Telephone Service
This and Related Reports
Key findings and policy implications of a recent AARP survey of consumers' experience with wireless phone service by Christopher A. Baker and Ann McLarty Jackson of AARP's Public Policy Institute: Consumers age 50 and older are more likely than their younger counterparts to report that they subscribe to a wireless telephone service. Reasons for subscribing to wireless phone services tend to vary according to the consumer's age. While younger subscribers often report that wireless is most valuable because of the convenience it affords them, older subscribers are more likely to say they purchase it for security in case of an emergency. Older consumers, who tend to use their wireless phones infrequently, lack important information about service coverage. As a result, many may find themselves in life-threatening or dangerous situations and unable to make an important call for help. The survey findings also suggest that the presence of numerous competitors in the wireless telephone market does not necessarily ensure that consumers take advantage of the available choices. In fact, only 16% of all wireless subscribers responding to this survey have ever switched companies to get a cheaper rate. Even fewer older respondents report having changed their wireless service provider. (50 pages) Cancel You are leaving AARP.org and going to the website of our trusted provider. The provider’s terms, conditions and policies apply. Please return to AARP.org to learn more about other benefits. Your email address is now confirmed. You'll start receiving the latest news, benefits, events, and programs related to AARP's mission to empower people to choose how they live as they age. You can also by updating your account at anytime. You will be asked to register or log in. Cancel Offer Details Disclosures
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