Do you have someone in your life that struggles with using their television because the remote is too complicated or because it is frequently misplaced? Have you ever had to help a parent or family member “fix” their television because they were unable to change a channel on their cable box? Perhaps this person wants to watch their favorite show, but can’t remember which channel it’s on. These are all scenarios that may plague someone near and dear to your heart, but none is easily solved until now. A relatively new piece of technology maybe the solution you’ve been looking for.
The Slingbox is a gadget generally associated with the young tech-savvy crowd, but it can also be used to help out someone who struggles with their television. For those of you unfamiliar with the Slingbox, it is a device that will allow you to watch your TV from any computer that has a high speed connection. All you need to do is to install the Slingbox hardware on the television you wish to control and then load the Slingbox software onto your computer. The Slingbox software will allow you to remotely control a cable box or television from anywhere.
Without leaving your home, you will be able to change channels for grandma so that she never has to miss an episode of CSI or American Idol. If she has a DVR then you can use the Slingbox to record her shows so that she can watch them anytime she wants. Yes, you run the risk of becoming a human remote control, but at ElderGadget we believe in improving the lives of the people that matter.
If you find yourself away from the computer a lot, then there is a mobile solution for you as well. Some mobile phones also support the Slingbox software and allow you to watch and control a TV from anywhere.
It should be noted that the home with the television will require a high speed internet connection, but there is no monthly fee for using a Slingbox. Currently there are two types of Slingboxes to choose from:
Sling Media Slingbox SOLO SB260-100
Sling Media Slingbox PRO-HD SB300-100
Here is a comparison chart to help you decide which one to purchase.
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
Thanks for sharing Aaron. The Slingbox looks like a cool idea. I will definitely spread the word.
I work on an eldercare blog for a nation-wide network of caregivers and we love to share new ideas or technology that would be of use to our aging parents.
Thanks again and keep up the great posts,
Bill
http://www.rightathome.net/seniorhomecare
Very good piece of technology here. It is user friendly and has many capabilities. I would say that it is worth the pennies!