Writing aids

Writing is often an important part of work. It can take the form of note taking, writing down information, taking minutes for meetings, record keeping or note taking on a PDA (personal digital assistant). There are various skills that can be involved in writing, including reading, computer skills, and pen use.

There are a range of aids and supports that can assist people who have writing or typing difficulties. If an individual experiences difficulty or pain when holding a standard pen, consider using a felt tipped pen that requires less pressure. Pens are also now widely available in a range of widths from office supplies stores, and if fine grips are difficult, a wider pen may prove beneficial. For those people that are vision impaired, writing can be difficult as they may be unable to see the lines on which to write and/or may have difficulty reading back what they have written (Independent Living Centres Australia Inc. 2007; LifeTec Queensland (no date specified)).

Links to specific types of writing aids:

There are numerous pieces of equipment that can enable someone to read or write more easily and independently:

• Braille styluses and slates
• Dictionaries and Thesauruses
• Envelope addressing guide
• Large print
• Lighted pens
• Paper with tactile lines
• Pen grips or holders
• Signature guides
• Typing aids

References:

Independent Living Centres Australia Inc. 2007, Independent Living Centres Australia Inc., Sydney, viewed 12 March 2008.

LifeTec Queensland (no date specified), Reading and Writing Equipment, LifeTec Queensland, Newmarket, viewed 12 March 2008.

Relevant Links:

• Independent Living Centres Australia Inc.

• Vision Australia – Hand writing

• Envelope addressing guide
• Dictionaries and Thesauruses
• Braille styluses and slates
• Lighted pens
• Large print
• Signature guides
• Pen grips or holders
• Paper with tactile lines
• Typing aids