I agree also. Plus, the throw on DA front levers is VERY short (and easy), compared to other Shimano components. So assuming his fingers can reach as far, then moving to other brifter-type Shimano shifters would make things worse.

Instead of bar end shifters, can he rig it to take a downtube shifter on that side? I don't remember how they used to rig Lance's Treks. In the Tour, he'd use a front DT shifter because it provides more trim.