functionalhand® and the Stylus

When an individual’s motor skills lack the hand control to access an electronic device such as an augmentative communication device, iPad, tablet or phone, the functionalhand® can help. Using a stylus allows access to a world of technology. We’ve received questions on what is the best stylus for the functionalhand®. That’s a great question and one we’ve spent considerable effort trying to determine. We can’t recommend one stylus but here is what we found. On newer iPads and devices: most stylus’ have worked. You don’t need to purchase a specific brand. Consumer reports does rate economical stylus’. We would refer you to their web site for information on specific styles. Make sure the position of the functionalhand® and angle of the stylus allows for direct access. Alignment of the wrist and hand is helpful. If a child has a wrist splint that helps keep the wrist extended, it may help with the position of the stylus. Make sure the stylus is sufficiently away from the wrist/hand so it accesses the device without the hand touching it. There has been difficulty with older phones or iPads connecting with a stylus. If this occurs, please watch this video for a trick using aluminum foil. Most clients have used the stylus successfully to access electronic devices. This opens a wide range of possibilities!