Augmentative communication--an approach for the severely physically handicapped person without oral speech

Area of Science:

• Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
• Neuromuscular Impairments
• Speech Pathology

Background:

• Traditional speech pathology assessments limited treatment for individuals with severe dysarthria and weak oral musculature.
• Many individuals with intact intellect faced profound communication barriers due to neuromuscular impairments.
• Past approaches often resulted in no useful speech, leading to significant frustration.

Observation:

• Severe dysarthria prevents many individuals from producing intelligible or useful oral speech.
• Lack of effective communication significantly impacts both children and adults, despite preserved cognitive abilities.
• Existing assistive technologies were insufficient for many with severe speech impairments.

Findings:

• Augmentative communication provides essential supplementary systems for non-verbal individuals.
• These systems facilitate expression of thoughts and ideas for those with severe speech production difficulties.
• Assessment processes and available technologies are crucial for enabling communication.

Implications:

• Augmentative communication empowers individuals with neuromuscular impairments to regain a voice.
• Healthcare professionals play a key role in the assessment and implementation of these technologies.
• This field offers the potential for improved quality of life and social participation for previously speechless individuals.