Trackballs and Mice

For seniors who are not used to a mouse, or who have some physical motor challenges, a trackball can be an alternative ‘input device’. Trackballs were actually invented decades before the mouse, and they are still used in many specialist military, medical, and technical situations.

Trackballs have several advantages that make them attractive:

• The track ball stays in one place and so it takes up little room on your desk.
• To move the ‘pointer’ on the computer screen, you just have to roll the ball. This requires only a small movement with your finger or thumb, rather than a whole arm movement required with a mouse.
• Once you have got the pointer to where you want it on the screen, you can then leave the ball alone and press the ‘selection button’ (mouse button on a mouse). This can be easier than using the mouse button on a mouse, because with the mouse you have to keep the mouse still while you click the button - this requires more concentration and motor control.

Several companies have designed trackball input devices. We provide a range of these and suggest that you read the customer reviews to help you decide which one might be suitable for your needs. If you are left handed, check that the device can be configured for a left hander. Please contact us if you have any questions. Click here to email us.