I provide help and support for the elderly. Most of my clients live alone and have nobody to help, including with making sense of technology. However, all of them desperately need communication. Those who have grandparents or senior neighbors probably know that they grasp any opportunity to chat.
Unfortunately, I can’t spend a lot of time with each of them since I have too many to look after. That’s why I help them set up Skype (I noticed they find it the easiest to understand) or other communication channels to talk to their relatives, friends, and so on. It opens a “lifeline” for them.
Some of them use the PC or laptop they have just for that, but others exchange links and browse different websites, accumulating malware from clickbait titles.
I’ve installed Bitdefender for many and use a computer security checker to scan suspicious files for malware. However, it seems pointless because they manage to pick up tons of malware by my next visit, so I’m in an endless loop of spending too much time fixing their PCs.
I can’t say no when they complain and ask for help because I know they can’t afford professional help, but honestly - it’s exhausting because it goes on top of my usual chores and physical & moral support.
That’s why I need a solution on how to prevent them from picking up viruses and other malware.
I’m no computer wizard myself - I know only basic stuff, like downloading and installing apps. I need advice on setting up limits for the websites they’re visiting. Maybe some kind of software for kids that allows limiting their exposure to malicious websites?
I’d be eternally grateful for help in this matter.
Many thanks in advance, guys.

  • DrWho83@alien.topBEnglish
    1·
    1 year ago

    It’ll drive you nuts but if you’re seriously wanting to help out of the goodness of your heart…

    Set them all up with a remote connection that you can access. Then tell them to text or call you anytime they have a question or problem. Stress that it’s important that they contact you right away so that the problem doesn’t compound and make it that much more difficult and time-consuming to resolve.

    I’ve owned my own repair/consulting business for almost 20 years. About 60% of the work that I do throughout the week is free for seniors or those that are mentally challenged. I couldn’t do it if I was married but sometimes I do wish I hadn’t started… with the cost of living rising I’m going to have to cut back on my free support which is unfortunate both for the people I’ve been helping and for me. I got a lot more satisfaction out of helping people that need it for free than I do making money… but for he doesn’t pay the bills.

    Good luck and good for you for helping those that can’t afford to help themselves.

    …

    Side note, I’ve found that as far as Windows computers go. Getting people set up with Windows defender with all the bells and whistles turned on is in general good enough and unlike all the other paid services out there doesn’t pop up constantly with upgrades or questions that only leads to a phone call to you. Most of the time you, AKA me, would spend a minimum of 15 minutes on the phone explaining while remotely connecting to their computer and getting rid of it or doing the update or upgrade. At the end of the call, most of the time, it was a waste of my time explaining because they still don’t understand.

    Therefore, you will save yourself time using just Windows defender and for the large majority of the people you’re helping it will be more than enough.

    The one thing I’ve spent a little extra time teaching people how to use is the pop-up blocker ublock on Chrome. I’ll occasionally have to go over it with them or remote in and show them how to unblock pop-ups on certain websites but other than that most of them seem to remember. A good pop-up blocker plus Windows defender seems to be more than enough for most of the people I help.

    Or, get them to use a Chromebook… well within most people’s budget and much safer than windows. Apple computers are sure nice but way out of the budget of most of the seniors I help.

    Rant: It doesn’t help though when relatives buy them iPhones and iPads and expect them to figure it out or pay someone to help them 🙄

    However, I do have a few seniors that used Apple products since they came out and are pretty good with them. That’s like less than 1% though 😅😥