Writing is an important part of life, and this is no less true with or without Parkinson’s disease. Someone experiencing Parkinson’s disease will find it more difficult to do the type of writing they once loved, especially at the beginning of onset when they are first adapting to their new condition. However, you can assure them that writing is still possible and that even though they can’t do some activities they once did, there has never been a better time to express themselves on paper.

There’s always a reason to write

There are many kinds of writing. There is the usual business — letters, paperwork, checks. Then there are the things we do for fun and artistic purposes — novel writing, poetry, crossword puzzles. There are also many fun writing events throughout the year, one of the most famous being National Novel Writing Month in November, when many normal, everyday people go into frantic mode to achieve the goal of writing 50,000 words of fiction in only 30 days!

If your loved one has had their writing process disrupted by Parkinson’s, these products could be just the thing to get them back in the game.

Type without keys. It’s actually possible!

OrbiTouch Adapted Keyless Keyboard

For typing on a computer, it’s hard to beat the technological prowess of the OrbiTouch Adapted Keyless Keyboard. Keyboard keys are often too small and tedious for people with Parkinson’s, but the OrbiTouch Adapted Keyless Keyboard has no keys, relying instead on two ergonomic plates that slide (not twist) in eight directions. Each unique combination types a different letter. Check out this video and see for yourself how this piece of hardware works so brilliantly.

For lovers of pen and paper

However, if your loved one with Parkinson’s is of the old-fashioned persuasion of writers who still use  good ol’ pen and paper, a weighted grip will be the solution. Gripping a pen or pencil tightly while also having to press down on the tip is difficult for those with Parkinson’s, as their writing hand may shake too much when not in a relaxed position.

Adult Weighted Universal Standard Holder

The Adult Weighted Universal Standard Holder provides the weight necessary to write on paper without requiring the user to press hard themselves.

Ez Grip Pen Grips

EzGrip Pen Grips allow the user to push down on the extended side of the grip without having to grip the pen tightly with their hand.

One of the best things you can do for the loved one you care for is to help them get back to the life activities they have always loved. Gift these products and other writing aids to the writer in your family or circle of friends.