I just gave my mother a prepaid cellular phone.  She may never use it, but for emergencies she should have one.  I got her a Net10 prepaid wireless phone.  I’m familiar with them because I have used one in the past.  Net10 is actually Tracfone which is the largest prepaid cellular provider in the United States.  The cost of the service is .10 a minute.  I got my phone at one of the box stores a few years ago and I ordered refill cards off their website.  It came with a number and minutes.  Opened and started using immediately.  You can order refill cards all over the web,(i went straight to Net10) or you can get them a various retailers.  Net10 is having a great online deal that includes 900 minutes and a free Motorola phone for $60.  No contract no headaches.  Also get free shipping on orders of $19.99 or more.  You can see all their online deals at savings headquarters.  Reception is perfect.