You haven't done anything wrong
My name is Donaldson, I'm an IT technician and I've worked in Pavia for years. A good share of the people I help every week are ladies and gentlemen over 65 — and the thing I hear most often is "I feel a bit embarrassed to ask". There's nothing to be embarrassed about. Computers weren't designed with us in mind: it's completely normal to find them complicated, at any age.
My job isn't just fixing the computer. It's making sure you can use it without anxiety: seeing photos of your grandchildren, video-calling a child who lives far away, reading the news, managing online banking if you need to — without having to call someone every time something moves an inch.
I come to you, sit with you, and I'm never in a rush
I don't work against the clock. If a step needs repeating three times before it sticks, we repeat it three times. If you'd rather I write the steps down on a sheet to keep by the computer, I'm happy to. The goal isn't "fix it and leave" — it's that you feel more confident the day after, when I'm no longer there.
Your family can organise everything for you too
If you'd rather have a son, daughter or grandchild arrange the day and time with me, that's perfectly fine. Many families work this way: they message me, but the visit happens together with you, at your pace, when you're ready. Anyone who prefers can also fill in an online form here instead of calling.
What I usually fix first
On my first visit, a computer usually needs three things, in this order: updating, cleaning, and then making your life easier.
- 1. Update everything
Many older adults' computers haven't been updated in months or years — that's normal, nobody explained it properly. I bring everything to the latest, safest version, without changing what you're used to.
- 2. Clean up and tidy
I remove useless programs, annoying pop-up ads, duplicate files, and scattered desktop icons. The computer becomes lighter and easier to look at.
- 3. Make your life easier
I create the right desktop shortcuts, sort out saved passwords, organise your browser bookmarks, and install what you actually need — all designed around how you use the computer, not how a twenty-year-old would.
The small things that feel like big problems
I have clients who won't even empty the recycle bin on their own because they're afraid of deleting something by mistake. I completely understand, and it's exactly the kind of thing I sort out — without ever making you feel embarrassed.
Here are some of the most common requests I get.
- Video calls with children and grandchildren
I set up WhatsApp, FaceTime or Zoom and show you, step by step, how to answer a call and how to make one yourself, until you feel confident.
- Photos that "disappear"
They're almost always still there, just in a different folder than expected. I find them and organise everything in a simple way to follow.
- Forgotten passwords
I recover access to email, Facebook, online banking or any locked account, and set things up to make it easier to remember next time.
- The computer "makes strange noises"
Sometimes it's just the fan working because the PC is full of unnecessary programs. I always check, if only to put your mind at ease.
- Scary messages on the screen
Update notices, security windows, sudden pop-ups: I explain which to ignore, which to close, and which are worth looking at together.
- Printing a photo or a document
I set up the printer and show you the exact steps to follow each time, perhaps written on a small note to keep by the computer.
- "I clicked something and now nothing makes sense"
This happens to everyone, not just older adults. In the vast majority of cases it's fixed in a few minutes, without losing anything.
- Scams and suspicious calls
I help you recognise the warning signs of an online or phone scam, and check the computer if you're worried someone has gained access.
How it works, step by step
You call, or I call youA child or grandchild can write to me on your behalf, or you can call me directly: just tell me what's happening, in your own words.
We pick a convenient dayNo rush: we find a time together when you're relaxed, with nothing else pressing.
I come, fix, and explainI work in front of you, explaining what I'm doing in plain language, and repeat it as many times as needed before I leave.
Clear prices, explained upfront
Before I start, you always know what it will cost. No surprises at the end.
- Home visit + first hour of work € 50.00
- Additional hours (billed proportionally) € 25.00 / hour
If a family member wants to pay for you
Many children or grandchildren prefer to handle payment themselves, sometimes even remotely. Just let me know when we set up the appointment, and we'll find the most convenient solution together.
Questions I get asked often
No question is too simple. Here are the answers to what my clients ask most often.
Getting started, without fear
1. I'm afraid of breaking something by clicking where I shouldn't. Is that possible?
It's very hard to actually break a computer just by clicking around. In the vast majority of cases, what seems "broken" is fixed in a few minutes. You don't need to be afraid to try.
2. I don't even know what operating system I have. Is that a problem?
Not at all. Just send me a photo of the screen, or describe what you see: I'll figure out the rest when I arrive.
3. Can I empty the recycle bin myself, or might I lose something?
The recycle bin is designed to be safe: you can empty it without worry, files stay recoverable for a limited time before that, so if you're unsure about something specific, ask me before going ahead.
4. I'm afraid of pressing the wrong key during an update. What should I do?
The safest advice during an update is not to turn off the computer and to wait for it to finish on its own, even if it takes a while. If something looks strange, take a photo and message me.
5. My grandchild told me my computer is "too old". Is that true?
It depends on its age and what you want to do with it. Many "old" computers work perfectly well for email, photos and video calls once cleaned and updated properly. I'll tell you honestly once I've checked it.
6. Can I call you just to have something explained, even without a problem?
Of course. You don't need something broken to call me: many visits are just about learning something calmly, like sending a photo by email or saving a document.
Family, photos and video calls
7. I want to see my grandchild on a video call but don't know where to start. Can you help?
Yes, it's one of the most common requests I get. I set everything up and teach you, calmly, how to answer a call and how to make one yourself.
8. Where do the photos my daughter sends me on WhatsApp end up on the computer?
I'll show you exactly where they're saved and how to find them easily, so you don't have to ask for help every time.
9. I want to print photos of my grandchildren. Is it complicated?
No, once the printer is set up it's a very simple task. I'll show you the exact steps, perhaps written on a small note to keep by the computer.
10. My son lives abroad: how can I see him more often without bothering him?
I'll help you set up a "regular" video call, perhaps the same time each week, so it becomes an easy habit for both of you.
11. My grandchildren send me funny videos, but I can't get them to play. Why?
Often it's just a matter of tapping the right spot on the screen, or a missing program to open them. I'll check and fix it in a few minutes.
12. I want to create a WhatsApp group with the whole family. Can you help me set it up?
Yes, and I'll also show you how to add photos, change the group name, and reply to messages without confusion.
Safety and scams
13. I received a strange email saying I've won something. Is it real?
Almost always not. If you're unsure about any message, don't click on anything and send me a screenshot: I'll tell you for certain right away.
14. Someone called claiming to be from the bank and asked for my password. What should I do?
Hang up right away: no bank ever asks for your password over the phone. If you've already answered some questions, call me and we'll check together whether anything needs changing.
15. How do I know if a website is safe before entering my details?
There are a few simple signs to recognise, and I'll show you during the visit. When in doubt, it's always better to ask before entering any personal information.
16. My computer suddenly became very slow. Is it a virus?
It might be, but often it's just too full of files or programs. I check both when I come, and I'll tell you for certain what's going on.
17. How do I protect my passwords without having to memorise them all?
I'll show you a simple, safe way to save them, easy to use even without being a computer expert.
18. Is it safe to shop online with a credit card?
Yes, on the right websites. I'll help you recognise which sites are trustworthy and which signs suggest a site to avoid instead.
Grandchildren, children, and "who touched the computer"
19. My grandchildren changed everything when they visited. How do I get it back to how it was?
This happens all the time. I restore your settings — wallpaper, icons, mouse speed — and show you how to prevent it happening again, if you'd like.
20. My grandchild installed a game and now I don't know how to remove it.
No problem, I'll remove it safely in a few minutes, without touching anything else on the computer.
21. My daughter changed my iCloud password and now nothing works like before. Can you fix it?
Yes, this is a common situation. I restore access and make sure your phone and computer start "talking" to each other again.
22. The computer suddenly speaks another language. What happened?
Someone probably touched a setting by accident. I know exactly where to go to set everything back to your language.
Programs, internet and printers
23. I don't understand the difference between the internet and the computer. Is that normal?
Completely normal, and you don't need to understand it to use the computer well. I'll explain it in simple words, if you're curious.
24. My internet at home keeps cutting out. Is that the computer's fault?
Usually not, it's the modem or Wi-Fi. I check both and fix the connection.
25. I need Word installed to write letters. Is it difficult?
Not at all, I install it with a genuine licence at a reasonable price, and show you how to open a new page and save what you write.
26. My printer suddenly stopped working. What should I do?
It often just loses its Wi-Fi connection. I reconnect it and check that everything works like before.
27. The mouse moves too fast and I can't control it well.
I set the speed to a comfortable level for you, along with double-click settings, which is often the trickiest part for anyone just starting out.
28. How can I read the newspaper on the computer in the morning?
I'll create a direct shortcut on your desktop to your favourite newspaper's website, so one click opens it every day.
Online banking and important services
29. I want to check my bank account on the computer but I'm afraid of making a mistake. Can you help?
Yes, I'll walk you through the first few logins until you feel confident, and explain what to watch out for to stay safe.
30. How do I book a doctor's appointment online?
I'll show you step by step how your region's or health authority's website works, and stay with you until the booking is confirmed.
31. I received an important document by email and don't know how to print it.
I'll show you where to find it and how to print it, one step at a time, without any rush.
How a visit works
32. Do I need to prepare anything before you arrive?
Just a free table near a power outlet. If you have a password you don't remember, that's fine too — we'll recover it together.
33. Can I ask my child to be present during the visit?
Of course, it's often helpful: that way you and a family member learn together, and there's someone who can help you in the days after.
34. How long does a visit usually take?
It depends how much needs sorting out, but most visits last between one and two hours. I'll tell you clearly once I see the situation.
35. If I forget what you explained, can I call you again?
Of course, it's completely normal to need to ask again. No judgment: that's exactly why I do this job.
36. Do you work on very old computers, from ten years ago?
Yes, I check them with the same care. If it's truly not worth repairing anymore, I'll tell you honestly and advise what to do.
37. Can I pay in cash when you come?
Yes, or we can agree on another method that suits you beforehand, even handled by a family member if you prefer.
SPID, INPS and government websites
38. What is SPID and do I really need it?
It's a kind of single "key" for accessing Italian public services (INPS, tax office, local council). Not everything requires it, but more and more services do these days. I'll help you create one and understand how it works, calmly.
39. I received a letter from INPS saying to access something online. What do I do?
I'll walk you through the first login, show you where to find what you need, and we'll check together that you've seen everything the letter mentioned.
40. Can I book a doctor's appointment through the electronic health record? Can you help me set it up?
Yes, I'll show you how to log in and how to book an appointment, one step at a time, so next time you can try it yourself if you'd like.
41. Can I pay a car tax or a fine from the computer?
Yes, through PagoPA (the Italian public payments system). I'll show you exactly where to enter the details and how to confirm the payment went through before closing the page.
42. What is PagoPA that they told me to use at the town hall?
It's the system used to pay for almost all public services online in Italy, from a grandchild's school lunch to a parking fine. I'll explain it and we'll set it up together the first time.
43. I'm afraid of making a mistake on a government website and losing money.
That's a completely understandable fear. The first time, it's best to do it together with me: after seeing the process once, most people feel much more confident.
Tablet, phone and computer together
44. I also have a tablet, can you help with that too or just the computer?
I also work on tablets and phones, especially to connect them properly to the computer and get them talking to each other.
45. The photos I take with my phone, how do I get them onto the computer?
There are a few ways, with or without a cable. I'll show you the simplest one for you and we'll repeat it until it feels natural.
46. My phone and my computer feel like two separate worlds. Can they be connected?
Yes, almost always. Once connected, photos, contacts and messages can show up on the computer too, if you'd like that.
47. I bought a new tablet my grandchildren recommended: is it the same as a computer?
Similar but not identical. I'll explain the main differences in simple terms, so you don't feel lost moving between the two.
48. Can I see who's calling my phone on the computer too?
On some phones, yes, with the right app set up. I'll check if your model allows it and set it up for you.
Reading and seeing the screen better
49. The letters on the screen are too small, can they be made bigger?
Yes, it's one of the first things I fix when needed: I enlarge text and icons to a size that's comfortable for your eyes.
50. Is there a way to have the computer read text aloud?
Yes, almost every computer has a built-in text-to-speech feature. I'll turn it on and show you how to use it for emails or documents.
51. The screen tires my eyes in the evening. Is there a way to make it softer?
Yes, I'll set up a warmer colour mode with reduced brightness for evening hours, which is much easier on the eyes.
52. The mouse is too small for my hand, are there alternatives?
Yes, larger, more ergonomic mice exist, and it's a small purchase that can make a big difference to everyday comfort.
53. Can I increase the sound volume beyond the normal maximum?
Sometimes yes, with special settings or external speakers. I'll check what's possible on your specific computer.
The basics nobody ever explained
54. What does "copy and paste" actually mean?
It's a way of duplicating text or an image from one place to another without retyping it. I'll show you live: after the first example, it becomes natural.
55. What's the difference between "Save" and "Save As"?
"Save" updates the existing file, "Save As" creates a new copy under a different name. I'll explain it with a real example, using your own documents.
56. A program has frozen and won't respond to anything. How do I close it without shutting everything down?
There's a way to close just that program, without restarting the computer. I'll show you, so next time you can do it yourself with confidence.
57. What is a PDF and why do so many documents arrive in that format?
It's a format designed so a document looks the same on any computer or printer. I'll show you how to open, read and print one.
58. I don't understand the difference between a file and a folder. Can you explain it simply?
A folder is like a drawer, a file is like a sheet of paper inside the drawer. With a practical example on your own computer, it becomes clear right away.
59. I have too many windows open and get confused. How do I see just the one I need?
I'll show you how to switch between windows and close the ones you're not using, to keep the screen tidy and less confusing.
After my visit
60. Will you leave me notes on what we did, so I don't forget?
Yes, if you'd like, I'll leave you a sheet with the main steps written in order, to keep by the computer.
61. If I have a small doubt after your visit, do I need to have you come again, or can I just ask over the phone?
For a small doubt, a phone call or message is often enough: I'll help you figure out right away whether it needs a new visit or can be solved over the phone.
62. Can I ask you to come back in a few months just for a general check-up?
Of course, many clients do this: a check-up now and then to keep everything clean and updated, without waiting for a problem to appear.
63. How long after the visit can I still call you if something feels off?
Whenever you need to, there's no deadline. If something related to our work stops working properly, message me and we'll sort it out together.
Music, reading and free time
64. Can I listen to the radio or the music of my younger days on the computer?
Yes, almost every classic radio station can be streamed online. I'll create a direct shortcut so you don't have to search for it every time.
65. Are there audiobooks I can listen to without having to read?
Yes, and they're a great option for anyone who gets tired reading for long periods. I'll show you where to find them and how to listen calmly.
66. My grandchild mentioned Spotify, what is it and how does it work?
It's a service for listening to music online. I'll set it up and show you how to search for the songs you like.
67. Can I watch Italian TV programmes I missed, even days later?
Yes, catch-up services let you rewatch almost everything aired in recent days. I'll set it up and show you how to search for a specific programme.
Online shopping and subtler scams
68. I bought something online by mistake, how do I return it?
I'll show you where to find the order and how to request a return, step by step, on the site where you bought it.
69. How do I know when a package I ordered will arrive?
I'll show you how to track the shipment, so you always know where it is, without waiting anxiously.
70. An ad says I've won an iPhone, it looks real. What do I do?
It's almost certainly fake. Before clicking or entering any details, send me a screenshot: I'll confirm it for you right away.
71. Someone I met online is asking me for money for an emergency. Is it a scam?
Unfortunately this is a very common scheme, especially when you've never met the person in real life. Let's talk before you send any money: better one extra question than a regret afterwards.
72. How do I know if an 80% discount offer is real or fake?
There are a few signs worth checking: the website, the original price, the reviews. I'll show you, so you learn to spot them yourself next time.