A friend has contacted me for advice. Her (elderly) mum has had a stroke
which has left her with speech problems and difficulties processing print
information (though her eyesight isn't affected), as well as limited
dexterity in the right hand (she's normally right handed). My friend says
her mum used to enjoy reading newspapers and magazines but now just sits
watching TV. She asked if a scanning/reading pen might help her to start
reading again. As she is watching tv I'm assuming her ability to process
auditory information isn't impaired.
I've suggested she tries to borrow a scanning/reading pen first, because
they can be quite fiddly and her mum might find it hard enough to manipulate
and hold magazines with her left hand never mind also try to use a scanning
pen. I've suggested she explore talking newspapers and books, DAB radio and
even an accessible computer with email / web access via screenreader to help
her mum maintain contact with family and keep up with news. I've also
suggested she contact the Stroke Association, IT CAN Help and AbilityNet for
advice and to check her mum is receiving speech and language therapy.
Does anyone have any advice or suggestions for equipment or strategies I can
pass on?
Thanks
Ian Francis
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