Stakeholder-guided augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) vest development for persons with intellectual...

Area of Science:

• Assistive Technology
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Rehabilitation Engineering

Background:

• Intellectual disability significantly impacts communication and social interaction.
• Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) systems are vital assistive technologies (AT) for these individuals.
• Widespread AAC adoption is limited by accessibility, usability, and social acceptance challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and present AAC Vest, a novel wearable AAC solution.
• To address user needs through user-driven scenarios and interdisciplinary collaboration.
• To create an accessible and usable AAC system for individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Main Methods:

• User need-driven scenarios and iterative prototyping were employed.
• Interdisciplinary expert workshops informed the design process.
• The AAC Vest integrates sensors and connects to a smartphone app via Bluetooth.

Main Results:

• The AAC Vest provides a discreet and user-friendly communication aid.
• It enables users to trigger pre-recorded messages and send text alerts.
• Wearable AAC technology shows potential in bridging user needs and technical solutions.

Conclusions:

• Wearable AAC solutions can effectively support individuals with communication impairments.
• Interdisciplinary collaboration is crucial for developing successful assistive technologies.
• The AAC Vest demonstrates a promising approach to enhancing communication for those with intellectual disabilities.