I've always wished that someone (much smarter than me) would write an absolutely foolproof and simple to use email program for older folks to use to communicate via email and perhaps even instant messaging to their loved ones. I think it would be wonderful for shut-ins, those in various types of care facilities, etc., and a wonderful use of old, recycled computers that wouldn't be useful for much else.
I set up a pc for my Mom with nothing on the desktop but an icon that say "MAIL" and another that says "NET".
She forgets which button to push to turn it "ON".