Computer Device Helps Tremblers
Operating a personal computer is often a trying chore for people who suffer from hand tremors. Trembling fingers and shaky hands cause erratic movement of the computer cursor. Simple tasks, such as opening e-mails, are almost impossible.
To help millions of people who struggle with tremors or Parkinson’s disease use personal computers with ease, IBM recently developed a computer mouse adapter.
The Assistive Mouse Adapter is a small device that plugs in between the mouse and the PC and is designed to work with any PC and operating system. The adapter adjusts for tremor severity, filters out unintended multiple clicks, and can be turned off when others want to use the mouse.
According to the nonprofit International Essential Tremor Foundation, almost 10 million people in the United States have Essential Tremors, the most common form of hand tremors. Parkinson’s Disease Foundation lists another 1 million American Parkinson’s patients who also suffer with tremors.
Seniors and people with disabilities will particularly benefit from the computer adapter in offices, home and public places such as libraries and universities. Hand tremor sufferers will gain independence in everyday tasks such as banking, shopping or researching medical advice.
Priced about $100, the adapter is available online through Montrose Secam, a British electronics company.
–Beth Lueder
Reprinted with permission from Pentecostal Evangel.
