Simple TV remotes: Is there a remote control that won’t confuse my dad?

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Is there a remote control that won’t confuse my dad?

Question

My elderly dad got a new TV that includes a remote control that is far too complicated for him to use. He's now calling me several times a week because he can’t get his TV to work. Are there simple remotes that can help solve this problem?

Our answer

Big Button Remote for Seniors, by Flipper LLCTV remotes that are too complicated are a common concern among seniors. Here are direct links to some easy-to-use products, which sell for about $60 to $80 (CDN), plus additional shipping fees:

  • Flipper Big Button Remote for Seniors (at Amazon Canada) offers extremely simple features, has as few as five buttons and is compatible with all major TV brands, set-top boxes, and cable and satellite services.
  • Weemote TV Remote for Seniors (at The Alzheimer’s Store Canada) has very few buttons and will work with any TV, cable box or satellite receiver that uses a remote.
  • Tek Pal – Large Button TV Remote Control (at Amazon Canada) has only six big buttons; it can be used with a cable-ready TV, but not with TVs that use a cable or satellite box.

If your loved one’s mobility is severely impaired, you might want to consider even larger buttons:

  • The Flipper Big Button Remote can also be paired with The TV Remote Module (at Enabling Devices). The module connects to large switch buttons (not included) to make TV viewing easy and convenient for people with impaired fine motor coordination. The module costs around $170 (USD), and one Gumball Switch costs around $60, plus additional shipping fees.
  • Wireless TV Remote Control (at Enabling Devices) is another switchboard with extra large buttons for those with impaired motor coordination who require a large (two-inch) striking area. The product costs around $250 (USD), plus additional shipping fees.

If your loved one is struggling with clicking the buttons fast enough, you might be interested in learning more about Is there something to help my friend who can’t press the remote buttons fast enough?

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