"The number of elderly computer users will increase as the population ages, and at the same time, the need for computer access grows," he said.

Computer users plug the device into a PC, and it can be adjusted depending on how severe the tremor is.

It is also able to recognise multiple clicking on a mouse button caused by shaky digits.

IBM said it would partner up with a small UK-based electronics firm, Montrose Secam, to produce the devices which will cost about £70.

James Cosgrave, one of the company's directors, said it would make a big difference to those with tremors.

"I'm a pilot and my tremor condition has not limited my ability to fly a plane," he said.

"But using a PC has proven almost impossible simply because everything revolves around using the mouse to accurately manipulate the tiny cursor on the screen."

He said a prototype of the gadget had transformed his life.

More to computers

The device could help open up computing to millions more people who have found shaking to be a barrier.

Last year, the Office for National Statistics reported that for the first time, more than half of all households in Britain had a home computer.

With prices getting cheaper to get online too, computer ownership is increasing.

But although 62% of British people have tried the internet, only 15% of Britons aged 65 or over have been online.

More than six million UK households now have a broadband net. By the middle of 2005, it is estimated that 50% of all UK net users will be on broadband.