Granny-proofing a remote control?

Elspeth

Random train of thought leads to the question: is it possible to 'disable' buttons on a remote control?

I've just seen a huge one that would be great for my granny but it's one of those universal ones with buttons to control DVD players and the like and I know she'd get into a muddle with it (and be ringing my mum every 2 hours to summon assistance).

So, is there a way to stop particular buttons working to make it a lot simpler? I'm happy to make it permanent if there's something I could pull out/stick down - in fact that would be better, as when we've tried taping over and labelling things (e.g. the plug socket to prevent her unplugging the freezer before bed every evening) she pulls the tape and label off.

Look forward to any suggestions anyone has. Thanks

isofa

Just by a simple one4all on instead, we used to have one with programme up/down, vol up/down, power, mute and I think that was it - for my grandma.

Fifer

What about something like this?

Elspeth

Oooh. Interesting - I'll suggest it to my mum.

Thanks both. Potentially a much simpler solution.

Duncan_H

If the other controllers are not suitable then you can take the original controller apart and put a bit of tape on the underside of the buttons you don't want her to use. They work by the metal bit on the underside making contact with the circuit board and completing a connection loop so put a bit of tape over it and they wont work. But try the simple option first

Elspeth

Thanks Duncan - I may well be giving that a go!

MrsE_2

I know you're talking about remote controls, but they do a simple big button phone in case she would find that useful too.
I got my mum one.