Applications for the Computer Shy?

I don't know how strange of a request this will be, but... would anyone here know of any programs/applications that would make computer-usage easier for people who "don't get" computers?

What gave me the idea was this: I saw a commercial some time ago for custom computers build and designed to be entirely user-friendly for users who don't understand computers. For example, the menus were extremely simple, with buttons for things like email, files, internet, video-calls, and so forth. No typing in web addresses or any of these details. The commercial was aimed at seniors, but really it could've applied to anyone lacking in computer comprehension.

Some members of my family use PCs everyday, and they know them well enough to get around, use email, and so forth. But they still don't understand concepts such as the difference between internet services and local programs, have trouble finding where things are stored in their computers, and so forth.

I've been wondering if there aren't any programs and applications designed with these users in mind. I realize this is a broad request. Any programs that simplify the process of exploring a user's files/makes it more obvious how to find them and use them. Anything like that?

You could use many of the free launchers like ObjectDock? - Animated Dock For Your Shortcuts And Widgets or About RocketDock - RocketDock.com and add the basic programs they would like to access to the launcher.