So basically, my dad doesn’t have any tech literacy, like at all.
The only reason he learned how to ever use a computer was thanks to Linux (in my experience the elderly find it easier to use than Windows btw).
However, I moved to a different country long ago, and his old Ubuntu installation is getting extremely old. Not only that, but I forgot to install something like Rust Desk before I left, which means his browser etc hasn’t been updated in years (he forgot how to do updates and lost the page with instructions).
So, my solution now that I know he needs an updated system is to send him a USB drive and detailed printed instructions on how to install it with pictures by mail.
I’m planning on sending him Linux Mint, because I wanted to use the OEM install option in order to pre-install some programs (freetube, signal, and especially Rust Desk) using it in a virtual machine, and then turn that into an iso/img that I could flash to a USB so that it’s ready for him to just install once he gets it. I also need to be able to preemptively rename Rust Desk and change the icon to something he can easily identify so that if he needs help, he can easily find the program, ideally already pinned in the panel or with a desktop shortcut.
Problem is, I can’t figure out how to do that. I’ve been trying for 3 days. I tried converting the vdi into a img file using qemu but that causes errors when trying to run the img or iso (I think it’s still raw?). I even got desperate enough to try ChatGPT by it gave me a very advanced answer that I didn’t understand that involved calculating memory, or to use Cubic (which can’t modify Rustdesk), and it also gave me a solution that didn’t work.
I also noticed that the vdi is much bigger than the initial mint iso - I guess because everything has been unpacked in the virtual machine. Shrinking it so it can fit in my spare 8gb drive would be the next step of I even made it that far.
Oh my god, you are so lucky. I was in the same position as you and the fact that they don’t have any tech literacy means that the transition will be easier, but yet it won’t be because they have no tech literacy. Just keep telling them. “Remember, you didn’t know how it worked on windows or Mac. So maybe it’s you the user that are having difficulties. But yet I am patient and I am here to help.”… Switching cost is propaganda. These tech companies offer nothing but slop and ignorant users. Just remember to be patient. Take things one step at a time. I would also try to figure out a way to get remote access to his computer and do a FaceTime thing on your phone. And only do this like on the weekends when you have the time to speak to him slowly. The Elderly will just get frustrated and give up on it. Which I can relate. Shit, if I knew where he lived and I was close enough, I would just, you know, compensate me, but I would do it. I think one of the biggest issues is understanding how they use their computer and the services and the pathways they go about doing their business. Like, if they choose to close down the browser, instead of just opening a new tab i mean, lose the battle win the war. If it works, it works. Fuck it. One day, they’ll listen and then you’ll be surprised. But if you charge at them like a bull, it isn’t gonna help. Frustration, cognitive decline, leads to aggression. It’s gonna happen to all of us, hopefully we build a better world. [email protected]