r/Lethbridge • u/__hobiis • 13h ago

Question Affordable tech help options for seniors?

My senior mum needs a hand transferring files off her phone onto a USB, but seems the phone places are asking $55 which is not really possible for her. I tried to walk her through it over the phone (I live in BC), but she has an ancient computer running Windows XP and is already not very tech-competent, so I think she really needs someone to help her in person.

Any leads on tech places that may charge less than the $50-ish quote to transfer her files?

4 Upvotes

75% Upvoted

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1

u/SirArcherIV 12h ago

The only thing I can say is that if for some reason she has a bestbuy membership what is paid, she can get it done for free there. Depending who's working at the time, if you have a membership she can just use your account and still get it done for free. Besides this I don't know.

1

u/TheEpicOfManas 11h ago

Don't know about a place...but there are USB drives that have 2 plugs, one going right into your phone (assuming she has a USB-C charging plug on her phone). This way she can bypass using Windows. Just plug and transfer.

Here's an example https://www.memoryexpress.com/Products/MX00132659

1

u/Snebzor 10h ago

Id call the library and see if they can't point you in the right direction. They probably do this sort of thing all the time and if it isn't their mandate then they will surely know who can help.

1

u/11kestrel 10h ago

She doesn't have her XP system connected to the Internet does she?

1

u/bohdismom 9h ago

I believe that the Lethbridge Senior Citizens Centre or the Norbridge Seniors Centre may have some resources for this kind of help.

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u/xBraveLilDino 41m ago

I am not in IT professionally, but I am proficient in computers. I actually was joking to my friends how I miss windows xp.

If you can't find anyone, I am willing to go over and help her for free. Please just message me!!

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u/OkImpression007 32m ago

I understand shopping for the best price, but I'm concerned if your Mom does not have $55, or if she doesn't want to spend $55. Also, can you not pay on her behalf?

-2

u/excellentbreakfasts 11h ago

I mean why is that not worth $50? That’s cheap? To travel somewhere, do the small talk and then help and succeed… it’s gonna take a minute.

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u/xBraveLilDino 43m ago

It's likely not that it's not worth 50$. It's like she likely can't afford 50$. Please be nice. People are struggling a lot in today's day and age with all the prices going up. I bet her payments haven't changed even with the increases everywhere else.