DSgal
Thanks for message.
I also have Windows 8.1 64 bit and am still trying to find my way around it. I think I am OK with the Start menu and shortcuts, but still learning.
See if this Microsoft document on Windows 8.1 helps.
Where is the Start menu? - Windows Help
I am sure that you can work out the details of the Premiere Elements troubleshooting. But, if any questions or need clarification, do not hesitate to ask.
We will be looking forward to your results related to deleting the whole 12.0 Folder in which the Adobe Premiere Elements Prefs file exists.
ATR