I'm begining to understand the problem now
Go to Tools>options>Status Bar>shared file indicator ... and dissable it.
Or .... you could always move the window down a little to hide all the writing along the bottom. I can do this with Mac. ... not sure if it's possible with Windows ... or just assure him it's the hours you have been online ... hmmm perhaps that's a worse idea lol
or downoad some stuff he likes .... I think were entering relationship
councelling here rather than Limewire use lol
Good luck