The top rated shows on television for seniors continues to be Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune. For many seniors using analog television sets, this love affair may come to an abrupt end in February of 2009 due to changes in broadcast standards set by the FCC.
The National Council on Aging (NCOA) and other aging advocates are concerned that many seniors who own older televisions will lose their programming on February 18, 2009, when the U.S. will make the switch to digital broadcasting. That’s why they’re letting seniors know that government coupons are available to help pay for converter boxes to keep analog televisions working after this date.
The “TV Converter-Box Coupon Program” allows U.S. households to obtain up to two coupons, each worth $40, that can be applied toward the cost of eligible converter boxes. Converter boxes are expected to cost $50-$70 and will be available at most major electronics stores.
Individuals can apply for a coupon from now until March 31, 2009, while supplies last. Congress set aside $1.5 billion for the program, which will fund 33.5 million coupons. To apply for a coupon, call the 24-hour hot line at 1.888.DTV.2009 or go to https://www.dtv2009.gov/Default.aspx.
[...] Billion Mistake: Why the Digital Converter Box Rebate is a Bad Idea The Michigan Home Care Expertsblog posted information concerning the upcoming February 2009 digital broadcast changes happening [...]
By: $1.5 Billion Mistake: Why the Digital Converter Box Rebate is a Bad Idea « Vote Bert Copple for U.S. Congress on March 10, 2008
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Our non-profit, the Urban Progressive Foundation has been actively working with seniors and other groups to provide straight, clear and understandable information to help them through the transition.
Later this week, I will be traveling to Wilmington, North Carolina, where the first full blown transition test-run will commence. If you can’t make the trip, allow me to be your eyes and ears. Visit my blog http://digitaldynamo.blogspot.com/ and website http://www.transition2DTV.com to for more information.
By: Denice Rhodes on September 5, 2008
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