For the spectator
Helpful Hints for Buying a TV
The world of TVs is looking better every day, but also more confusing. Here are some tips to buying a new TV or to ensure you are maximising your viewing pleasure from your existing TV.
Don’t buy functionality you don’t need
If you don’t need smart functions or 3D, opt for a TV without those features. Usually, the simpler the better.
Size matters
Most seniors prefer watching larger TV screens to smaller ones. It’s especially true for those who suffer from some kind of vision impairment. If there’s not much difference in price and you can afford it, opt for the larger TV, however, always consider the dimensions of the room and the viewing distance.
The sweet spot today, considering price, performance and the typical living room, is between 55 and 65 inches.
Screen size also depends on how close you sit to the TV. Basically, if you can see the individual pixels of the screen, you're too close.
Remote controls
Modern TVs usually come with a complex remote with tiny little buttons. That’s not ideal for seniors at all. I’m sure there are at least a few buttons that you’ve never ever touched on your remote.
The solution for this problem is easy: change the original remote for a universal one with just a few and big buttons. Your tv salesperson should be able to assist you.
Another, less elegant but effective solution is to cover the buttons that are unnecessary and leave accessible only those that you use.
Improve your audio experience
Turn on “Closed Captions”
If you are having trouble to listen to the dialogues from movies and series you are watching, the easiest thing to start with is to turn on the “Closed Captions” function in your TV settings. This way, you can read the dialogue as it scrolls across your screen.
Adjust the TV Audio Settings
Another thing you can set up on your TV is the setting called “Sound” or “Audio”. Most TVs have a number of audio settings specifically designed to enhance dialogue, that can help with hearing.
Furthermore, if the TV has a “User” mode, it may have an equalizer that lets you adjust various frequencies. If this is the case, try lowering the bass and lower mid-range and boosting the upper midrange and higher frequencies.
Smart TVs: Most already are!
An increasing number of sets come with built-in Wi-Fi for connecting Internet-based services like Netflix for streaming videos or to run apps for watching special-interest programs, downloading on-demand movies, playing games or even posting to Facebook.