February 2022 - Assistive Tools for Hand Tremors

February 2022 WVATS E-Newsletter

Assistive Tools for Hand Tremors

Assistive tools can make daily activities easier for individuals with hand tremors. It is important to find the right solution for each person and the activity. Here are just a few examples of some tools that can help in different situations.

a photo of two spoons with thick handles

For dressing:

Clothing that uses magnetic or Velcro closures
Slip on shoes
Weighted button and zipper aid

For utensils and cooking:

Weighted utensils
Liftware
Rocker knife
Automatic jar opener

For computer use:

Large key keyboards
Keyguards

For writing:

Steady Write Pen
Weighted pens and pen holders

For more information on assistive tools that can help overcome barriers caused by hand tremors, call WVATS at 800-841-8436, email WVATS at wvats@hsc.wvu.edu or visit the WVATS website at wvats@hsc.wvu.edu.

Check It Out

Toolbrush Pillow

3 Easy steps to apply: Take Toothbrush OUt of the HOlder, Lay Toothbrush Head on the billo and apply toothepast with ease, Place toothbrush back in the holder

The toothbrush pillow holds your toothbrush for easy application of toothpaste. It can also help with removing the cap from a tube of toothpaste. The holder can reduce frustration and mess. It can be helpful for individuals with tremors, limb differences, stroke and other disabilities. WVATS has the toothbrush pillows available for demonstration and for loan in our loan library. Just search for the toothbrush pillow in the loan library at https://vll.cedwvu.org/.

For more information on the toothbrush pillows or other devices available in our loan library, call WVATS at 800-841-8436 or email WVATS at wvats@hsc.wvu.edu.

There is an App for That

Dosecast

dosecast logo: a pill eminating radio waves

Dosecast medication reminder app allows users to enter the basic information about their medication including name, dose and when you take it. Reminders can be set up for the day, week or month. Reminders can even be set for hours or days after last dose. The app can provide refill reminders and will provide a log that can be shared with family and doctors about medication adherence. The basic Dosecast app is free. There are additional features that can be unlocked for a fee. It is available on the android and iOS platforms.

Upcoming Events & Training

Let’s Talk: AT for Communication

Thursday, March 24, 2022, from 3 pm to 4 pm:

Everyone needs to be able to communicate. This training will provide information about different tools that can be utilized for communication. Participants will be able to define what communication involves. Participants will be able to list at least three different communication methods. Participants will be able to identify at least three different access methods for communicating.

Gardening with Arthritis

Thursday, March 31, 2022, from 1 pm to 2 pm:

Farming and gardening are fun, but can take a toll on your body. This presentation will show adaptive tools that can help make gardening less painful. We will discuss tools to help with arthritis, back pain and to prevent secondary injuries.