My mother never wrote
letters as she grew older because her poor handwriting distressed her. I am just now beginning to understand what
she was going through. As degenerative
joint changes and the remnants of carpal tunnel syndrome creep up on me I am
finding that my handwriting is rapidly deteriorating too and I don’t like it
one bit.
If there is always one item
on your grocery list that is totally undecipherable or if swollen, stiff and
uncomfortable fingers are making it difficult for you to put pen to paper you
will be pleased that ergonomic pens have hit the market. You may not be able to pen the great American
novel by hand but you will be able to jot some readable notes until you can get
to your typewriter or computer.
Most of these pens are
uniquely designed to take pressure off from your fingers and improve your
penmanship as well. Remember when we
were actually graded on penmanship?
Heather Larson writes about the “Write Stuff;” in the Arthritis Today
magazine (Sept/October 2008) and comes up with some novel ideas.
Pilot Pen Dr. Grip gets the
thumbs up from the Arthritis Foundation for its wide barrel and cushy silicone
grip. Some other interesting options
that can also serve as conversation pieces include the Ring Pen, the Evo Pen
and the Yoropen.
The Ring Pen is worn around
your index finger and minimal pressure is required to write. Evo Pen is kidney shaped and lets you cup the
pen in the palm of your hand. You are
actually using the entire hand to write with rather than putting pressure on
your fingers. The Yoropen has a futuristic
design (your grandkids will love this one).
A wide grip requires less downward pressure and prevents your finger fro
slipping.
The written word is still
the best way communicates. Don’t let
your handwriting get in the way of telling your family that you love them.
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