The best way to figure out what you want to do with excel and word in python is to look at the VBA object model. Find the information here:
VBA Samples: http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/ee692929.aspx
Excel: http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/aa269683(v=office.10).aspx
Word: http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/aa279125(v=office.10).aspx
Enjoy
