More DTV info

(WHAS11) - You’ve probably heard about it, seen the commercials for it, but the switch to digital television next year still leaves some folks scratching their heads.  It happens in February of next year.  It means that if you have an older television set, and don’t use a cable or satellite provider, you won’t be able to see television on it by this time next year.

“Many of our seniors depend on TV... to get their information, of course, get news and to keep them company,” says Barbara Gordon, with KIPDA, the Kentuckiana Regional Planning and Development Agency.

But if that TV isn’t ready for the switch on February 17th of next year, you may need a digital converter box. 

“We’ve not heard a lot from the elderly, which is one of the reasons we’re worried,” says Gordon.  “We’ve not heard a lot from them in terms of what they are doing or not doing.”

“The TV’s I have in the house are all analog at this time,” says Nelson Worden, a senior citizen.  “I don’t have a digital TV yet.  I’m very interested in getting a converter box.”

But it’s not the only way to get ready.  You can do one of three things to prepare for the switchover: buy a converter box, get cable or satellite service, or  buy a digital ready TV.

But if you already have one of those things, you may not need to do anything at all.

“Really the big question that we’re getting is do I actually need this?  And for the majority of people, they don’t, because they have subscription TV service like cable or satellite,” says Todd Jones, customer assistance supervisor for Best Buy.

But if you do need a converter box, you can buy one at any electronics store.  You can also submit an application for a $40 government subsidy to help with the purchase of up to two boxes for your house.

“The main advice we’re giving [seniors] is to become aware,” says Gordon.

If you are a senior and want more information on getting help with the switch-over, you can call the KIPDA at 502-266-5571.