My father-in-law can't work a mouse. Is there a special "senior" version?

[Orangepeel]

My 80 year old father-in-law is admirably trying to learn how to use a computer. His biggest problem is that he can't control the mouse.

He is currently using a standard issue Dell mouse. Any mouse that tracked better would probably help, but is there is one with huge buttons so he won't keep accidently right clicking?

[LeftyMom]

1. I'm sure there's an adaptive version out there, but maybe try a trackball first?

It might work out just as well and you can get a good one for $20 at any computer store.

[Whoa_Nelly]

2. An overlay touch screen maybe? Would make a great Xmas gift

http://www.abilityhub.com/mouse/touchscreen.htm



Have used this very same product with SpEd kids who had fine motor control problems.

[NV Whino]

3. You can usually program the buttons

I have a friend that kept right clicking. I just went into the mouse software and turned all of the buttons to a single click. You probably will have to download software, none of the mice seem to come with the software.

[seemunkee]

4. What about one that is designed for little kids

They usually have bigger buttons

[NewWaveChick1981]

5. OMG... I just have to relay a story here...

:rofl: I worked at a community college about ten years ago, and in our office, we had a computer workstation so students could enter their financial aid applications online and search for scholarships. There was a great big sign on the workstation that said, "YOU MAY USE THIS WORKSTATION ONLY IF YOU ARE FAMILIAR WITH COMPUTERS. THE FINANCIAL AID STAFF ARE NOT COMPUTER INSTRUCTORS AND CANNOT OFFER ASSISTANCE WITH THE EQUIPMENT." I was working one afternoon, and there was a guy who had been at the workstation for over an hour. The receptionist came into my office and said, "I think this guy is having trouble with the workstation. Can you come out here and see what he needs?" She said this, trying not to laugh, so OF COURSE my curiosity was up. :P When I got out there, this guy was holding the mouse like a walkie-talkie and yelling, "HELLO!!! HELLO!!!" into it. :rofl: He started beating the mouse on the table and cursing. I walked over and said, "Sir, can I help you?" He said, "This damn computer is NOT working! Nobody will answer me!!!" I said, "Are you familiar with how a computer works?" He said, "Yes, I used one in 1979." I said, "Well, this is a mouse, which helps you navigate on the screen. It's not a microphone. It's probably better if you fill out the paper version and mail it in." :spray: I had to bite my tongue to keep from laughing. He looked befuddled and said he'd do that.

I don't know of a "senior" mouse, but a trackball might work OK. :)

[spinbaby]

6. There's got to be a market for stuff like this

I know many older people who have trouble operating common devices--not just mice, but also cell phones, TV remotes, you name it. I think the fine motor conrol goes after a certain age and eyesight certainly does.

[seemunkee]

7. Mouse for people with tremors

http://www.aarp.org/learntech/computers/life_online/mouse_for_shaky_hands.html

[Catshrink]

8. I used to teach adult computer classes...

one of my students had Parkinsons Disease. I found a trackball for him to use during class and that helped him a lot. He just couldn't hold the regular mouse still while he clicked. It's an idea. Maybe a touchpad? I've seen those also.

[ContraBass Black]

9. There's a thread in the archive somewhere about mouses that are easier

For people with motor disabilities to use. I don't have a star now, so I can't search for it.

[Orangepeel]

10. THANKS everyone!

I'm at my in-laws, so I don't have much time to respond. But, I'm definately bookmarking this thread for Christmas ideas!

Thanks!