Fred,

My grandparents (85 years old) and my parents (fifties) have both recently purchased new computers... their needs from a computer are basic: email and minimal internet, no need for social media or any hoolabaloo.

Both purchased computers from Big Box (Costco/Best Buy/Whatever) for less than a thousand bucks, and since most computers are plug-n-play (turn that sucker on and go!) they managed. They aren't very computer savy, but they figured it out quickly. I think they got XP.

While I am no techno-stud, I can recommend that you get a basic, affordable unit and find some local kid/fishing friend hot-sh!t computerwiz to help with the basics. Bribe me with one of those awesome clam guns and I will be over their in a jiggy