A range of specially adapted writing pens are available commercially for use by persons who may require a pen with either a moulded or alternative grip to help them write independently.
Workplace solutions and adjustments
Pens with a larger gripping surface are generally easier to hold and require less gripping force, thereby potentially increasing task endurance. Office supply stores and specialist stores stock a wide range of different pen holders and pen grip attachments for people who find it difficult to grip a standard pen due to pain, fatigue, unsteadiness in the hands or reduced grip strength.
Some available pen grip options are listed below:
- an anti-stress pen is a pen with a built up grip with a contoured handle
- a grotto grip is a contoured grip suitable for left and right handers
- a soft lightweight foam ball grip
- rubber pencil grips that fit over the pen shaft and encourage a more comfortable and efficient pencil grip
- triangular grips fit over the pen shaft and increase pen diameter for easier gripping
- a writing claw which encourages correct finger positioning and an efficient pencil grip.
For people unable to physically grip a pen, a range of pen holders that can be attached to the hand for this purpose are listed below:
- finger yokes which are made from foam and slipped onto a pen to enable the person to use thumb and forefinger to hold the pen
- orthoses which enable the person to hold a pen in a writing position
- writing birds which are made from moulded plastic and are placed on the page with the hand resting on top of it, however, requires upper arm strength to use.
For more information about writing and writing aids see the links below:
References
Independent Living Centre NSW 2009, Writing Aids, Independent Living Centre NSW, Sydney, viewed 4 September 2011, http://www.ilcnsw.asn.au/minor_groups/300/grid/3.
Pencil Grips Plus (no date specified), Specialist grips, Pencil Grips Plus, online, viewed 4 September 2011, http://www.pencilgrips.com.au/#/specialist-grips/4534554049.