Who Needs a Big Button Remote?
A big button remote can be of huge benefit to those who are elderly, have low vision, or just have difficulty with small buttons on a television remote control. While these remotes may be more expensive than traditional models, the benefits detailed below make them worth the price tag for some users.
Easy to Use
Are your elderly loved ones having trouble using their TV remote? There are a few reasons why. Some buttons are too small or require too much dexterity to push.
They may also have low vision, which can make it harder to see what’s on-screen. Luckily, there is an easy fix: Get them a big button remote.
These remotes have large buttons with bright colors and clear writing so they’re easier to press and understand. And even though you may be thinking that your elderly loved one might not like change, these remotes are actually similar in size and design to older models—they’re just better for aging fingers!
Assistive Technology
When you have limited vision, it can be challenging to control a TV or media device. A big button remote is an essential piece of assistive technology that helps people with limited vision enjoy TV, movies, and other visual media.
Older adults, in particular, often struggle with diminished eyesight and motor skills related to dementia and physical disabilities. With simple icons or pictures instead of words on big buttons, it’s easy for anyone to learn how to use a big button remote right away without assistance.
Better Accessibility
The main reason why many people prefer big button remotes is their relative ease of use. Everyone from kids to adults with arthritis can easily find and push large buttons compared to compact buttons on traditional remotes. For seniors, for example, larger remotes are less likely to get stuck under bed sheets or other objects.
And if you’re watching TV in a dark room, there’s no need to fumble around trying to locate small buttons that you might not be able to see anyway. Many companies also offer remote controls with Braille lettering so visually impaired users can easily tell which button does what.
Easy Setup
Most universal remotes come with quick setup instructions that make them simple to use. If you or someone in your home has low vision or trouble reading, these steps will be easy to understand and follow. For example, instead of trying to decipher technical installation instructions, you can just select each step on a visual interface and follow along step-by-step.
Once installed, big button remotes are also extremely intuitive and easy to use. This is especially helpful for people who have limited mobility or dexterity issues because they don’t have to struggle with complex controls while watching TV.
It’s important to note that not all universal remote controls are created equal when it comes to ease of use. Some might require more complicated setups than others depending so you may want to help your loved one set up the remote initially so that their favorite TV channels and streaming apps are all easily accessible from the remote.
Longer Battery Life
Anyone who has been frustrated by a remote control that eats through battery power knows that some devices—like universal remotes and garage door openers—just don’t seem to last long enough between charges. When you’re using your remote on a daily basis, having one with long-lasting batteries is essential.
Big button remotes can last for years without needing to be replaced. This means you’ll spend less time changing batteries and more time using your remote.
Lower Costs in the Long Run
In addition to being more convenient for users, big button remotes are also likely to save you money in terms of battery usage and general maintenance. And let’s be honest – who wants to be constantly replacing batteries?
People with disabilities, in particular, may have difficulty keeping track of remote batteries. Big button remotes won’t go dead on you as often or drain your bank account when it comes time to replace them. So no matter which way you look at it, changing your remote less often is an advantage that’s hard to beat!
Less Clutter Around The House
You don’t have to put your remote control away when you aren’t using it. Just place it on top of your entertainment center, or wherever is convenient for you.
Since it has large buttons and numbers, your parent or grandparent can easily find their favorite channel number with just one quick glance. And since they won’t be fumbling around with two small remotes, it will also help keep their hands free for other activities like knitting, playing games, or even putting dinner on the table.
Reduces Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common medical condition caused by repetitive activities that put stress on tendons that connect your forearm muscles to your fingers. Elderly people and others with low vision or eye injuries are at greater risk for CTS.
A big button remote makes it easier to change channels, adjust volume levels, and control other functions when you’re in front of your TV or stereo.
Fast Channel Changing
A large channel change button also helps prevent triggering another channel by mistake when attempting to change channels. For example, if you have trouble seeing numbers, pressing 10 might inadvertently trigger 20 instead because those two look very similar.
Having bigger buttons will eliminate any mispresses because each digit on a larger remote is bigger than its smaller counterpart. This also helps prevent accidentally pressing two or more buttons at once when trying to press one, as you might with a regular-sized remote.
One-Handed Operation
The best big button remotes are designed for one-handed operation, which makes them much easier to use if you have trouble holding things in your hands or have limited mobility due to an injury or disability.
Most remotes work well for single-handed operation, but having a big button makes it even easier and more convenient to change channels quickly and easily. If you’re looking for a big button remote control and you have limited mobility in one hand, make sure that it is easy to hold and can be operated with just one hand.