How to help my mum with electricals and gadgets?

Question

Hi, my mum isn't very good with technology (she's 54). This often gets her very depressed when things don't work and she blames herself. She has an MP3 player, camera etc, that she would love to use more but just doesn't "get". What is the best way to help her? Are there any guides for people like her?

Thanks!

Sophie

Answer 1

nothing wrong with being 54 I'm same age. just play about with them or read the manuals, the secret is not to be afraid of them.

most gadgets work in similar way touch menus etc it doesn't take long to get used to them.

Answer 2

Yes, there called "computers". If she has access to one, there are all kinds of sites to help "ordinary" people "master the art" of how to use the new toy. Other than that, a patient person that can sit with her (often) and walk her through her current problem. When all else fails, get out the owners manual. Since she is a youngster, from my point of view, there are senior citizens groups that work with each other to figure how to use their cell phones, digital cameras etc.

Answer 3

Since she has presumably read the guides that came with the devices, more guides probably won't help.

Can I suggest asking around people she knows of about her age, who can use tech stuff, and could explain things to her. They'd be on the same wavelength so to speak.