What Are Augmentative Communication Devices?

Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices enable people with severe speech problems to supplement existing speech or replace nonfunctional speech. Special augmentative devices, such as communication boards utilizing pictures and symbols, help people express themselves. Benefits not only include increased communication, potentially enhancing school and job performance, but also include emotional benefits through increased social interactions, resulting in feelings of self-worth.

Need

• AAC devices are used by individuals with severe communication disorders that impair their abilities to talk. According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, over 2 million Americans suffer from such impairments, including individuals with cerebral palsy, head injuries and autism. The Association recommends obtaining professional evaluation to develop the most applicable communication system to meet an individual's needs. Speech-language pathologists, physicians, psychologists and social workers are qualified to help people choose AAC devices that fall into one of two primary categories, direct selection and scanning.

Categories

• A user operates a direct selection AAC device operate by pointing at its controls with a body part, such as a finger or toe, or with a pointing instrument, such as a beam of light, head-stick or mouth-stick. People with severe physical disabilities alternatively operate devices by using a switch. The switches are turned on with body parts, puffs of air or wrinkles of eyebrows.

  Scanning AAC devices use lights passing over control options. Users activate switches to stop the light, selecting a corresponding option. Scanning requires less physical skill than direct selection devices but more cognitive abilities.

Description

• AAC devices are portable and sometimes operate similar to word processors. Such devices have dual displays, allowing communication in natural, face-to-face positions. Displays are large and bright, allowing easy operation by both users and listeners. Enlarged keys provide easy access for individuals with motor control problems or visual impairments, and keyboards can be arranged alphabetically for individuals who cannot operate standard typewriter layouts. Some devices use images, rather than the alphabet, to assist users in communicating. Portable AAC devices are small and lightweight for convenience.

Advanced

• AAC devices are made for all ages and some models enable full Internet access, including emailing and text messaging. Advanced devices allow remote control of household appliances, as well as manipulation of environmental control settings such as air-conditioning and heating. An AAC device may require modifications as the needs of its user evolves. Supplemental software programs are available to customize devices to individual needs. Mounting systems and power adapter converters for wheelchairs are available, increasing practicality, portability and freedom for users as much as currently possible.