I think the Rogers cable connections are always 'live' now, (meaning they are able to receive service), but the cable stream requires a phone or Internet modem or a descrambling box for TV. In the past, Rogers used to send a technician to cut the ends of the coaxial cable, if service was disconnected at a residence.
Anybody who wants a pair of fresh AA batteries can just bring a Rogers TV remote control to a Rogers store, and exchange it for a brand new one with new batteries, even if the old remote works properly. I don't think the stores even check to confirm if you have Rogers cable. Former Rogers customers could get free batteries from Rogers for like, forever, just by keeping the remote.