Short Description

Mouth Sticks and Head Pointers provide an alternative method of using equipment such as a keyboard. They are sometimes used when a person is unable to use their hands due to tremors or uncontrolled movements (eg. Cerebral Palsy) or in the absence of movement (eg. Quadriplegia).

More Details

HEAD POINTERS
Most head pointers protrude from the forehead and are held in place by adjustable straps. Other units protrude from the chin, which places the pointer more in line with the item being accessed. Chin pointers reduce the unsightly barrier imposed by the forehead pointers as they do not obscure as much of the wearer's face.

MOUTHSTICKS
Mouthsticks can be used by people with reasonable head and mouth control to access a range of devices including computer keyboards, electronic typewriters, and calculators. The ideal mouthpiece should allow the user to speak and to maintain saliva control, although these functions are not easy with the mouthpiece in place. Mouthsticks should be orthodontically correct to minimise wear on the teeth and maintain jaw alignment. A number of mouthsticks are available commercially, but in some cases a custom design is necessary.

These devices are commercially available and can be customised and manufactured through general hospitals (contact the Occupational Therapy Department) and Technical Aid to the Disabled.
This information has been prepared by the COMPUTER ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY SERVICE (Div. of Northcott).

Standards

Some assistive technology needs to meet Australian or other standards. Standards may relate to materials, manufacturing and installation. Products that meet Australian or international standards will have written certification. To find out if a product meets Australian Standards ask the supplier to show you the certificate. For a fact sheet about standards contact us or visit www.ilcaustralia.org/home/standards.asp