The Best Writing Tools for the Stroke-Disabled

Stroke patients have a myriad of disabilities to contend with after being medically stabilized. There may be expressive and receptive language disabilities, mobility issues and issues with daily living activities. Stroke victims often have to relearn basic skills. An occupational therapist is a specialist who assists stroke victims with learning to cope with these difficulties. When a stroke patient has difficulty with writing, there are writing aids to help. When trying to assist a friend or relative with relearning writing skills, always consult the occupational therapist for recommendations for writing tools.

Weighted Pen

• Stroke patients often have difficulty controlling writing instrument due to problems with muscle control. The Alimed Weighted Pen can help the patient grip and hold the instrument more easily. The pen comes with 8 to 10 gram weights, which can be added or removed to increase stability of the writing instrument and control writing.

RinG-Pen Writing Instrument

• This pen attachment is another option for stabilizing the writing instrument in the patient's hand. The ring fits over the index finger to help stabilize the writing instrument. Putting the finger through the ring establishes a steady grip for the stroke-disabled adult. The pen has an ergonomic design, providing a natural resting place for the finger. The pen is lightweight and provides a comfortable, steady writing instrument.

Ableware Steady Write Pen

• Another choice for stabilizing the writing instrument in the patient's hand is the Steady Write Pen. This pen has a wide triangular base that increases stability. The hand balances over the triangular base as it is guided for smooth writing. Right or left handed writers can use it.

Ring Writer Clip

• You can attach the Ring Writer Clip to any pen and use it with either your right or left hand. The larger ring slips over the index finger to provide stability for the writing instrument. The writing instrument slips through the smaller ring. The rings automatically position the writing instrument correctly for those who have difficulty with grip. The ring writer clip comes in three sizes to accommodate different finger sizes.

The Writing Bird

• This writing instrument is another option that is beneficial to those who have difficulty holding a pen. The implement is a molded bird shaped object. The user inserts the writing instrument into a small ring at the front of the "bird." Either the right or left hand grips the bird. When you apply pressure to the tail, the pen glides smoothly over the paper.