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It takes more energy to write with some pens than others. A ‘2B’ pencil requires less pressure than an ‘HB’ pencil, and a fibre tip or gel pen less pressure than most biros. Experiment with different writing implements. A pencil always works and a propelling pencil doesn’t need to be sharpened. Some pens have an area of rubber or serrated plastic to make them easier to grip, or you may find a special chunky pen easier. There are pen grips available from disability equipment catalogues, which fit onto ordinary biros or pencils, or make your own by wrapping a rubber band round the pen. The ink flow tends to be better with more expensive ballpoints, which makes them easier to write with. Lean on a hard surface such as a clipboard.
Address stickers and headed notepaper save writing your address and can be obtained from many sources including some charities. Labels can also be used for messages such as ‘Happy Christmas, with love from Sophie.’ Some stationers sell cards printed with a message such as ‘Dear …, Thank you very much for the Christmas present. Love from …’ Pre-inked stamps can be made with an address or even a signature; ask a good stationers.
Standard letters, which can be sent to more than one person, can save energy. These can be done on a computer or handwritten and photocopied. Computers can also be used to print out labels for addressing envelopes. Use highlighters and different coloured pens and paper to make filing systems and lists more user friendly. Post-it notes are also useful. Writing or dictating post cards or note cards rather than letters is enough to keep in touch. It doesn’t have to be finished all in one go, but can be written or dictated a few lines each day. Some people exchange talking letters, recorded on cassette.
It may be possible to dictate into a tape recorder or dictaphone and then get someone to write it out later. A personal stereo/ dictaphone, which uses full size cassettes and doesn’t need earphones, is available from ARGOS. Some tape recorders record when you speak and stop when it is quiet so there is no need to keep pressing buttons. It is also possible to dictate into a computer with the correct features. Other programs can minimize the number of letters typed by guessing the word or phrase as you type it (e.g. newer versions of Word for Windows).
Some friends might be prepared to send you postcards or letters without receiving a reply. Creative writing such as poetry can provide a means of expression and enjoyment, but it can be difficult to switch off and rest when your brain is in the middle of composing a poem. Write lists and notes as an aid to Memory. Keeping a diary or journal may help express your feelings.
Some words are often shortened (and, street, road) but you can choose to shorten other words as well if you are writing notes 2 yslf, as long as you can remember what they mean! Some people use 4 instead of for, u instead of you. Shorthand is designed to be the most efficient way of writing. It takes time to learn in full but you can always use selected bits. Books are available to teach yourself ‘Pitman’s Script’. Using a letter opener saves energy and fitting a cage to the letterbox means you don’t have to pick up mail from the floor.
Computer : Education : Emergencies : Pacing : Paperwork : People : Reading : Shopping : Special Interest Groups : Tray
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