What's the exact model number?  If you go to the support page for that machine and download the Owner's Manual (or whatever they call it) it should note whether media keys/smart keys are enabled by default or not.

I don't know exactly when, or on which model(s), this feature made its debut.  You could definitely get your parents to do the BIOS tweak if it is present and enabled.
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Brian - Windows 10 Home, 64-Bit, Version 1809, Build 17763  

   Explanations exist; they have existed for all time; there is always a well-known solution to every human problem — neat, plausible, and wrong.

         ~ H.L. Mencken, AKA The Sage of Baltimore