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Tech support for an elderly friend?
(lemm.ee)
I just spoke with a friend of mine on the phone. He’s got various tech support issues including worrying that his phone might have some malware on it.
I have the skills to help him, but I don’t have the time. Therefore I’m looking for more options.
My question is: are there services that specialize in tech support for elderly people? Maybe coming over to do tasks for them, or a place that he can go with devices?
I recommended he go to the T-Mobile store for questions about his phone’s security, but I know it can be hit or miss with the expertise of retail employees.
Does anyone know of an IT service that specializes in helping elderly/tech-non-savvy individuals?
I've heard of local efforts to do that in a few places, but nothing large scale. There should be a national non-profit that does that kind of work. I provide tech support for a lot of family and friends who don't have other options and there's a lot more need out there.
The T-Mobile Store is a good starting point. They can also try T-Mobile Support. They don't always know enough, but they try to be helpful.
I would avoid for-profit support organizations unless you hear good things about one. Most of them are expensive and unreliable. Some are straight up dishonest.
Some areas have city departments or non-profit organizations that act as clearing houses for "social services". A place like that may have useful suggestions for where to look.