How to help your parents with their tech over the holidays
- Help your parents with their tech over the holidays by taking proactive steps to set them up for success.
- Update all of their devices, including computers, smartphones, and tablets, to ensure they have the latest security patches and features.
- Organize their digital life by creating clear folders, labels, and backups to make it easier for them to find what they need.
- Explain complex tech concepts in simple terms, such as AI and cybersecurity, to help them feel more confident and secure online.
- Take the opportunity to teach your parents about basic computer maintenance, troubleshooting, and safety tips to reduce their reliance on you for tech support.
Going home for the holidays isn’t all turkey, holiday decorations, and political arguments discussions. It also comes with requests for tech support and questions like “Why does my computer do this?” and “I read about this AI – what is that?”
Think of it as an opportunity rather than a burden. If you’re like many people, you get tech support calls from frustrated parents or grandparents all year long. This is your chance to make sure things are set up so that, when you do get that call in a month or two, you can more easily fix things – or help your parents fix it themselves.
Make sure everything is updated
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Q. What is the best way to approach tech support requests from my parents during the holidays?
A. Think of it as an opportunity rather than a burden, and take steps to prevent common issues before they arise.
Q. Why do I get tech support calls from my parents all year long?
A. It’s likely because you haven’t taken proactive steps to set up their devices or keep them updated with the latest software and security patches.
Q. How can I help my parents fix their own tech issues?
A. By setting everything up correctly in advance, including updating computer software and security, you’ll be able to guide them through troubleshooting and fixes more easily.
Q. What’s the most important thing to keep on a family member’s computer during the holidays?
A. It’s essential to keep computer operating systems, browsers, and other software updated with the latest patches and security updates.
Q. Why is it crucial to update my parents’ devices before the holiday season?
A. Updating their devices ensures that they’re protected from known vulnerabilities and can help prevent common issues like malware or viruses.
Q. How can I prepare for tech support calls from my parents during the holidays?
A. Take proactive steps, such as updating software and security, to make it easier to fix common issues when they arise.
Q. What’s a good way to explain AI to an older family member who may not be familiar with it?
A. Explain that AI stands for Artificial Intelligence, which refers to computer systems that can perform tasks on their own, like recognizing images or understanding speech.
Q. How can I help my parents set up their devices for easier use and maintenance?
A. Offer to help them set up automatic updates, password managers, and other tools that can simplify their tech experience.
Q. What’s the best way to handle a frustrated family member who needs tech support?
A. Stay calm, listen patiently, and try to understand their issue before offering solutions or guidance.