The ABC’s of Augmentative Communication by Mercedes Lopez, SLP

What is Augmentative Communication? An area of clinical practice that attempts to compensate, temporarily or permanently, for the impairment and disability patterns of individuals with severe expressive communication disorders. (ASHA as cited in Sevcik & Romski, 2000) Incorporates the individual’s full communication abilities and may include any existing speech, vocalizations, gestures, manual signs, and aided communication. (Sevcik & Romski, 2000)

The 2 Forms of Augmentative Communication Aided: Requires some form of external support. An example is a communication board with symbols (pictures, photos, or words) that represent what an individual wants to say. Unaided: A nonverbal means of natural communication, including gestures, facial expressions, and manual signs. (Sevcik & Romski, 2000)

What are some facts about Augmentative Communication? Multi-disciplinary: AAC involves the student, parents, therapists (SLP, OT, PT), and classroom staff. Assessment is on-going: The needs and changes of systems and programs must constantly be evaluated. Multi-modal: No one system will be adequate for all communication needs in all settings and environments. A team evaluation is needed before implementation of a device. (Lewis Class Intermediate School……, )

What are the goals of Augmentative Communication? Expression of Needs and Wants: For example, the user must be able to tell someone that he is hungry, needs directions, etc. Information Transfer: The user must be able to communicate with others in detail. Social Closeness: The user must be able to develop and maintain a relationship with others. Social Etiquette: The user must be able to comply with the social conventions of politeness. For instance, saying “Please” and “Thank you”. (Goals of Augmentative Communication, n.d.)

What are Augmentative Communication Devices? Devices that address the communication needs of individuals who cannot consistently rely on speech for functional communication. Devices used to supplement existing speech, or replace speech. (Sevcik & Romski, 2000)

What are the requirements of an AAC device? Provides all Communication Functions: Includes basic needs, conversational needs, writing, and drawing. Compatible with Other Life Aspects: Must not interrupt the user’s mobility in any way Unrestricted Communication Partners: Must be able to use in a variety of settings, including classroom and face-to- face Useable in All Environments: Must be able to work in noisy environments, along with various contexts Unrestricted Vocabulary: Must be able to say any word, phrase, or idea. Most effective Communication Possible: Must be able to communicate emotions, must not fatigue the user, must be able to convey basic needs. Promotes Growth: Must be able to grow in vocabulary, grammar, and topics relevant to the user. Motivating: Must be easy to use, and pleasing so that the user has increased motivation to use the device. Affordable: The cost of the device must be affordable for the user if no funding is available. (The Augmentative Communication System……, n.d)

Who is a candidate for using an AAC device? Anyone who encounters difficulty communicating through speech. Can be a result of: *Congenital Diseases *Hearing Impairment *Autism *Cerebral Palsy *Mental Retardation *Stroke *Aphasia *Traumatic Brain Injuries *Multiple Sclerosis *Parkinson’s Disease (Sevcik & Romski, 2000)

How many people are in need of an AAC device? It is estimated that at least 47,000 older Americans are in need an of an AAC device. (Moore, 2000, April)

What are the benefits of using an AAC device? Significantly improves the functional communicative capabilities of an individual (Parette & Angelo, 1996) Allows increased social interaction with friends and family Allows individuals to participate in community activities Allows children to become involved in school activities (Fallon, Light, & Paige, 2001) Significantly improves an individual’s self esteem Creates a sense of independence in the user

What types of AAC devices are available? Head Pointers: alternative access methods for individuals who are unable to use their arms, hands, or fingers. This device can be used to spell out messages, point to symbols, or to hit buttons on a voice output device. Picture Boards: A simple communication method that can be accessed by pointing with either a hand, finger, head stick, or mouth stick. Digitized Speech: Recorded messages that are age appropriate and easily changeable. Messages can be accessed through a touch or a switch. Synthesized Speech Devices: A computer based system which allows a greater number of messages to be pre-programmed, and also allows real time creation through on-screen keyboards. Portable Keyboards: Offers up to 10 programmable, synthesized instant messages, and 100 abbreviation expansion messages. (i.e.: when typing HH, “Hi, how are you?” is displayed or spoken) (Washington Assistive Technology…, n.d.)

What is the cost of an AAC device? The cost of an AAC device varies on the type and model being purchased. The average cost of a device can range anywhere from $1000 to $9000. (Golinker, n.d.)

Are there funding sources who will cover the cost of an AAC device? Some Special Education programs will cover devices for children under the age of 21. Private Insurance companies State, local, or county government State Vocational Rehab Agencies Charities State Programs * Please note that none of the groups mentioned above are required to cover the cost of AAC devices. They are merely a list of resources which can be researched if needed. (Golinker & Sheldon, 1999)

How can you become an advocate for unrestricted funding of AAC devices? Write or call your Congressmen and women asking them to propose funding legislation to cover the cost of AAC devices. Write an editorial in your local newspaper. Use your piece to heighten awareness about AAC devices, and funding obstacles. Start a funding campaign in your community.