While the spot was meant to be humorous, Hebertson said, "I think it's exactly what we're in store for. There is just going to be a lot of confusion for folks on how to get it installed."

When the Federal Communications Commission proposed the switch to all-digital broadcasting a few years ago to sell the analog airwave spectrum to cell phone and other communications providers, consumer advocates warned that elderly and low-income citizens would be impacted.

Those concerns "just floated like a lead balloon. They think there will be nice people magically appear at the door" of those who need help making the conversion, he said. Con artists understand that, making the elderly particularly at risk for fraud or worse as they look for help, Hebertson said.

He doesn't know of any other Utah agency offering help with the purchase or installation. While many older people already have HDTV, satellite or cable service and won't be impacted, "it could get ugly" for those that don't, he said, adding he doesn't know what the demand will be or whether some people will just choose to go without TV.

The conversion is happening at the same time Aging Services is trying to deal with open enrollment for some 150,000 people who qualify for Medicare. They will also be busy trying to explain the new 10-digit phone dialing to many who can't simply punch in a seven-digit phone number anymore.

He said he's hoping that Utahns will step up and help not only extended family members, but elderly neighbors who can't help themselves. "It seems like the older you are, the more difficult it will be."

---

E-mail: carrie@desnews.com