Mouse Accessibility

Although it is possible to buy specialist mice and other pointing devices of alternative shapes and sizes, access can often be improved by changing Windows' Accessibility Options and some other features that are scattered around your computer.

I find it difficult to hold the mouse steady

Although alternative mouse hardware is available (such as rollerballs and joysticks) it could be worth adjusting your pointer motion speed or trying some free specialist software... [more about holding the mouse steady]

It's difficult to position the pointer onto small things

In addition to taking steps designed to reduce tremors, you can use Windows' Visual Display options to make your target buttons and menus bigger and consequently easier focus the pointer over... [more information about positioning the pointer onto small things]

I am left handed

First you should find a mouse that is designed to fit your left hand. This guide then shows you how to tell Windows to swap the buttons over... [more about left-handed use of the mouse]

I find double-clicking difficult

Fortunately it is possible to replace virtually all double-clicks with single-clicks by changing one small, rather hidden, Windows option... [more help with double-clicking]

I find single-clicking difficult

Depending on your needs you could try an alternative mouse or add a new easier click button in the form of a switch. Also you could trial some free dwell software that allows you to hover over items in order to select them - no clicking required! Read this guide to find out about all the options available... [more information about single-clicking]

I want to use the keyboard instead of the mouse

It is possible, and often quicker, to use the keyboard to perform most of the tasks that people usually reach for the mouse in order to complete... [more information about using the keyboard in place of a mouse ]

I want to find out about Mouse Dwell programs

Mouse Dwell is a solution that allows a person with a physical difficulty to be able to use a mouse or other pointing device without the need to ever click a button... [more about mouse dwell programs]

Specialist mice, rollerballs/trackballs and joysticks

If you're really struggling to use a mouse you want to consider trialing a specialist alternative... [more specialist mice, rollerballs/trackballs and joysticks]

I find it difficult to see the mouse pointer

If you struggle to see the mouse pointer you're not alone! Find out how you can enlarge the mouse pointer, change its colours, add pointer trails and locate the pointer using a keypress... [more information on making the pointer easier to see]