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You don't have to be able to see television to enjoy it. But if you have low vision and want to enhance your viewing and listening experience, try these ideas:
- Get closer. Try moving a comfortable chair close to the TV.
- Try a television with a larger screen or consider investing in a high definition television (HDTV). HDTV is a digital television broadcasting system with higher resolution than traditional television systems. They have become much more reasonably priced since entering the market place over 10 years ago.
- Place the television in such a way as to reduce reflected glare on the screen.
- Control light in the room. Reducing the amount of light in the room will generally make the colors brighter and the image clearer.
- Check out low vision products that may help you with viewing the screen. There are also glasses that help to increase the contrast of the picture, which can make the image and colors sharper. Visit a low vision specialist for recommendations.
- Try listening to shows such as documentaries and news information programs, which tend to have more narration.
- For sports broadcasts, consider using a radio with an ear piece to get a better description of the action. Using the ear piece allows you to remain in the room with others who may be watching the action but will keep you up to date with what is going on (and sometimes radio broadcasts will give you a better scoop!).
Hearing the Television
You can use an assistive listening device to hear your television. In that way, you can keep the volume at a normal level for others in the room and still be able to hear the program. Some devices are wireless while others connect the microphone to the amplifier with a long wire that could pose a tripping hazard. Consider your particular situation before choosing a device.
Changing Channels
Marking remotes—You can mark a few critical control buttons such as the power button, volume control, play/stop, and number 5 on the number pad by using tactile dots on your existing remote controls.
Use of large numeral remote—some universal remotes come with large print numerals—white on black or black on white.
Tactile dots, large print remotes, and many other useful products can be found through the specialty catalogs or even in some variety stores or home improvement stores.
Getting organized—keep your remote in the same place. Try using a small basket to hold your remote, reading glasses, etc., and place it in a location near your favorite chair.
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Have fun, do what you love, and it's a wonderful life.
