I use the Kindle, via my iPad. I think it is waaaaay cool. But I don't tote it around. If I wanted reading material to take with me on the go...I would go with the Kindle.
I have an 82 year old friend that uses the original Kindle. The only thing I help her with is purchasing books. She probably could do it on her own. She worries a lot about making a mistake and compromising her credit card.
I think if you can use a computer, you can use a Kindle... or any e-reader.