Elderly Writing Tools

When a person is elderly and experiences various physical problems, writing doesn't come easy. Difficulty in writing can stem from many factors, including finger-crippling arthritis, lack of strength and grip in the fingers and hands, visual problems, unsteadiness and shakiness. Adaptive writing aids can make it possible for a senior citizen in your life to sign checks, make lists and write long letters freely once again.

Grips and Desks

• Pencil grips can fit on any kind of pencil or pen. The grip helps the senior citizen grip the pen or pencil, which makes writing easier, or even possible, for her. If a senior is bed-bound, a lap desk can allow him to write there. A beanbag lap desk adapts itself to the shape of the person's lap while providing a firm writing surface.

Weakness

• Hand and wrist orthotics hold the index finger and hug the palm of the hand, which assists those with weak fingers, hands and wrists. Holders made of soft plastic put on the pen or pencil can make gripping and writing easier.

Ring Pen

• Another option is the ring-pen. The senior inserts his index finger, on the hand that he writes with, through the ring and this secures and steadies his hand. The pen is ergonomically designed so that it fits the hand correctly, which reduces stress on the wrists and fingers while writing. This eliminates hand-cramping. It also supports the index finger and reduces writing fatigue and makes the individual's handwriting more legible. This is recommended for those with carpal tunnel syndrome, arthritis or those who have poor fine-motor skills.

Arthwriter

• For those with arthritis or those missing fingers or who have their writing arm in a cast, a hand aid called an Arthwriter allows them to grip a pen. It has a flat side to prevent rolling. It clamps onto the handle of the pen.

Light Touch

• Pens that are called light-touch require little pressure in order to write and are very easy to hold. The pen is designed for the arthritic person and features an indentation, which eliminates thumb pain. The shaft is light.

Steady Writing

• When a person has hand limitations or is suffering from Parkinson's disease or arthritis he will benefit from using a steady writing aid, which consists of a wide base that is triangular and which improves writing and increases writing stability.