Lively: Empowering Seniors with Innovative Health and Connectivity Solutions
LIVELY: In an era where technology is increasingly intertwined with daily life, one company stands out for bridging the gap between innovation and accessibility for older adults. Lively, a pioneering connected health technology firm, has been transforming how seniors stay connected, safe, and independent. Formerly known as GreatCall, Lively specializes in user-friendly devices, services, and apps designed specifically for the needs of aging populations. With a focus on simplicity, reliability, and health monitoring, Lively isn't just a tech provider—it's a lifeline for millions of families navigating the challenges of senior care.
A Journey from Niche Innovation to Industry Leader
Lively's story begins in 2005, when entrepreneur Arlene Harris founded GreatCall with a singular vision: to create technology that empowers older adults without overwhelming them. The company's debut product, the original Jitterbug phone, was a game-changer—a simple, large-button flip phone tailored for seniors who might find smartphones intimidating. This device quickly gained traction, proving that accessibility could drive widespread adoption..
The mid-2000s marked a period of rapid expansion. In 2009, GreatCall partnered with FONEMED to launch Live Nurse (now rebranded as Urgent Care), offering 24/7 access to registered nurses for medical advice. That same year, the acquisition of MobiWatch, Inc. bolstered its portfolio with mobile Personal Emergency Response System (mPERS) technology, enabling GPS-enabled alerts for emergencies.
By 2011, the company introduced the MedCoach app for medication reminders and the 5Star Urgent Response system—now known as GreatCall Splash—for instant help at the touch of a button. The 2012 release of the Jitterbug Touch, an Android-based smartphone with a simplified interface and physical keyboard, further expanded its reach, blending modern features with ease of use.
A pivotal moment came in November 2015 when GreatCall acquired Lively Inc., a startup with a software platform for caregiver alerts tied to pill dispensers and sensors tracking daily activities like sleep, diet, and movement. This integration laid the groundwork for more holistic health monitoring.
Growth accelerated in the late 2010s. By 2017, GreatCall boasted around 800,000 subscribers, $250 million in annual revenue, and nearly 1,000 employees, including 700 in Nevada-based call centers. That June, private equity firm GTCR acquired the company in an undisclosed deal, injecting fresh capital for expansion. Just a year later, in August 2018, retail giant Best Buy swooped in with an $800 million acquisition, positioning GreatCall as a cornerstone of Best Buy Health and elevating its CEO to president of the active aging division.
In May 2021, the company underwent a significant rebrand, adopting the name Lively to honor its 2015 acquisition and signal a new chapter focused on vibrant, proactive aging.This coincided with expanded compatibility, including integration with the Apple Watch, making its services more versatile than ever.
Products and Services: Simplicity Meets Cutting-Edge Tech
At the heart of Lively's offerings is a commitment to intuitive design. Its flagship products include the Jitterbug Flip phones—durable, easy-to-use devices with large screens and buttons, perfect for seniors. These run on Verizon's network as a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO), ensuring reliable coverage without complex plans. For those wanting more features, the Lively Smart phone adds data capabilities with customizable plans starting at a low initial fee.
Beyond hardware, Lively's ecosystem shines in health and safety services. The Urgent Response Center provides round-the-clock medical consultations, prescription management, and emergency dispatch. Wearables and mobile apps track vital signs, medication adherence, and activity levels, sending alerts to caregivers if anomalies arise. Tools like the Link app allow family members to monitor loved ones remotely, fostering peace of mind.
Recent challenges, such as Verizon's 2023 3G network retirement, tested Lively's resilience. While some older Jitterbug Flip models were affected, newer iterations like the Flip2 and Lively-branded smartphones remained fully operational, with Verizon extending 3G support specifically for Lively's legacy devices.
Navigating the Future: Challenges and Opportunities
Today, as a Best Buy subsidiary headquartered in the U.S., Lively continues to innovate amid a booming senior tech market. With an aging global population—projected to double by 2050—the demand for connected health solutions is skyrocketing. Lively's emphasis on privacy, affordability, and user-centric design positions it well against competitors.
However, the company isn't without hurdles. Evolving network standards and data privacy regulations require constant adaptation, while competition from big tech's senior-focused features (like Apple's health integrations) keeps the pressure on. Under Best Buy's umbrella, though, Lively benefits from vast retail distribution and R&D resources, enabling broader accessibility.
Looking ahead, Lively's trajectory suggests a future where technology doesn't just connect— it enriches lives. By prioritizing empathy in every product, the company reminds us that true innovation serves people first. For seniors and their families, Lively isn't merely a service; it's a companion in the journey of graceful aging.
*For more information, visit