Contents
Special Issue Topic

Neuropsychology of Handwriting

Submission Deadline: April 30, 2026

Guest Editor

Prof. Maurizio Balestrino E-Mail

University of Genoa and IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy

Research Keywords: Creatine, neuropsychology, stroke, energy metabolism

About the Special lssue

Handwriting is a multifaceted activity involving motor, cognitive, linguistic, and perceptual functions. Recent research highlights its role in activating extensive neural networks, especially in the parietal and central brain areas, fostering memory and learning. High-density EEG studies reveal that handwriting enhances brain connectivity more than typing does, particularly in theta and alpha bands—key for sensory processing and memory.

Clinically, handwriting is gaining attention as an early indicator of cognitive decline. In dementia, especially Alzheimer’s disease, notable handwriting changes occur: micrographia, spatial disorganization, irregular pressure, spelling/semantic errors, and reduced fluency. These reflect deterioration in neural circuits related to motor planning, language, and visuospatial memory.

A study from the University of Genoa introduced the COGITAT score, a quantitative tool linking handwriting deterioration to cognitive status, with potential forensic and clinical applications.

Handwriting also shows promise as a rehabilitative method in mild cognitive impairment and dementia, stimulating memory, attention, and motor skills simultaneously. It engages visuomotor, somatosensory, and linguistic circuits, activating both parietal and frontal cortices bilaterally. This promotes interhemispheric integration, synaptic plasticity, and functional connectivity.

After decades of neglect, the neuroscience of handwriting is now a vibrant field of study. I am honored to edit a special issue of Exploration of Neuroprotective Therapy dedicated to this topic and invite researchers worldwide to contribute their findings.

Keywords: Handwriting, cognitive decline, neural networks, memory formation, cogitat score, brain connectivity, rehabilitation, visuomotor circuits

Published Articles