I had the same issue as you do... (Score 1)

I found that a new hard drive with Ubuntu (with the latest Open Office and Firefox) ideal for people who are used to Windows XP. New hard drives are usually much faster and also will give the family members to always switch back if they really hate the Linux. But before I suggested Linux, I first I got them used to Open Office and Firefox (with extensions like AdBlockPlus and Delicious) on Windows XP. I also think Linux is not really for everyone...