When others have returned to work, what has helped them with tasks such as using a mouse? My hubby is struggling with "double clicking " and "click and drag" motions with the mouse. Any suggestions? And please don't suggest seeing an O/T, we live rurally and getting an appointment is practically impossible. Are there any devices out there that could help? Also how do others who have lost the function of one hand perform the ctrl+alt+delete function?

Hi Tracy,

I’m so sorry to hear about your husband having a stroke and the current difficulties he’s experiencing with using the mouse and keyboard.

I’m an OT and would usually assess someone completing the activity and trial a few different strategies to see what would be most appropriate. We tend to use strategies that are either remedial or compensatory. Remedial strategies really tap into neuroplasticity and help to correct or improve the deficit or impairment and restore function and independence. Compensatory strategies are usually environmental modifications that bypass or compensate for the loss of function or limitation, also with the aim of increasing independence. You may decide to use a combination of both depending on a number of factors, including time and energy. A few adjustments to the mouse settings (see below) may make a significant difference and your husband can always “upgrade” by changing the settings back as his quality of movement improves.

Without knowing further information (like his strength, sensation, range of movement in both arms, etc) or having seen your husband completing the activity here are some potential options:

http://www.isunshare.com/windows-8/turn-on-and-turn-off-sticky-keys-on-windows-8-8.1.html

https://mcmw.abilitynet.org.uk/category/using-your-keyboard-one-handed/

It’s a shame it’s so difficult for him to access an OT. Is there any way you could engage a private OT over Skype for a few sessions? It might take some ringing around to see if an OT would provide a Skype review but your husband could get a Chronic Disease Management Plan from the GP for up to five Medicare rebated OT sessions.

If you wanted to discuss any of these suggestions further or need assistance helping with finding the mouse settings, Sticky Keys and Ease of Access please don’t hesitate to give us a call on StrokeLine on 1800 787 653.

Best wishes,

Simone – Occupational Therapist for StrokeLine (Mon-Wed)