Aided communication refers to approaches that rely on external support or tools to help individuals convey messages, enabling effective communication for those who cannot rely solely on speech. This method is a crucial part of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), providing a voice for many.
Understanding Aided Communication
Aided communication encompasses any communication method that requires a device or tool external to the communicator's body. Unlike unaided communication, which uses only the body (like gestures or sign language), aided communication leverages technology or materials to facilitate expression.
It includes a wide spectrum of tools, from simple picture boards to sophisticated speech-generating devices. The primary goal is to empower individuals to express their thoughts, needs, desires, and ideas, fostering greater independence and participation in daily life.
Types of Aided Communication
Aided communication methods are broadly categorized based on their technological complexity:
Low-Tech Aided Communication
These methods are simple, non-electronic, and often low-cost, requiring minimal setup. They are portable and can be easily customized.
- Communication Boards: These are boards featuring symbols, pictures, photographs, line drawings, visual-graphic symbols, printed words, or traditional orthography that individuals can point to or gaze at to form messages. For example, a board might have pictures representing "eat," "drink," "toilet," or "play."
- Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS): A structured system where individuals exchange pictures for desired items or activities, gradually building complex sentences.
- Alphabet Boards: Boards with letters, numbers, and common words for spelling out messages.
High-Tech Aided Communication
These methods involve electronic devices that often provide voice output, allowing for more dynamic and varied communication.
- Speech-Generating Devices (SGDs): Specialized electronic devices that produce synthesized or digitized speech when the user selects symbols, words, or phrases. These devices can range from dedicated devices to applications on tablets or computers.
- Tablets and Handheld Devices: Commercial tablets (like iPads or Android tablets) running specialized communication applications (e.g., Proloquo2Go, TouchChat, LAMP Words for Life) transform these devices into powerful communication tools.
- Computers: Equipped with AAC software, computers can also serve as high-tech communication aids, often integrated with various access methods.
Comparing Low-Tech and High-Tech Aids
| Feature | Low-Tech Aided Communication | High-Tech Aided Communication |
|---|---|---|
| Examples | Communication boards, PECS, alphabet boards | Speech-generating devices, AAC apps on tablets/computers |
| Power Source | None required | Requires battery/electricity |
| Cost | Generally lower | Generally higher (device + software) |
| Portability | Often highly portable, simple to carry | Varies; can be compact (tablets) or less portable (laptops) |
| Voice Output | No | Yes (synthesized or recorded speech) |
| Vocabulary Size | Limited by physical space | Extensive and expandable |
| Customization | Manual customization, can be quick | Digital customization, wide range of options |
| Durability | Generally robust, less prone to electronic failure | Susceptible to electronic damage, requires care |
Who Benefits from Aided Communication?
Aided communication is beneficial for individuals of all ages who have difficulty communicating effectively through natural speech. This includes, but is not limited to, people with:
- Developmental Disabilities: Such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), Down syndrome, or cerebral palsy.
- Neurological Conditions: Like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Parkinson's disease, or stroke.
- Acquired Disabilities: Resulting from traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, or certain medical procedures (e.g., laryngectomy).
- Progressive Diseases: Where speech abilities may decline over time.
Benefits of Aided Communication
Implementing aided communication can significantly improve an individual's quality of life and communication effectiveness. Key benefits include:
- Enhanced Expression: Provides a means to communicate complex thoughts, feelings, and needs that might otherwise go unexpressed.
- Increased Independence: Empowers individuals to make choices, participate in daily activities, and direct their own care.
- Reduced Frustration: Lessens the frustration often associated with communication breakdowns for both the communicator and their partners.
- Improved Social Interaction: Facilitates participation in conversations and social activities, leading to richer relationships.
- Cognitive Development: For some, using AAC can support language acquisition and cognitive growth by making abstract concepts more concrete.
- Access to Education and Employment: Opens doors to learning environments and vocational opportunities by enabling effective communication in these settings.
Choosing and Implementing Aided Communication
The selection of an appropriate aided communication system is a highly individualized process. It typically involves a team approach, including speech-language pathologists (SLPs), occupational therapists, educators, family members, and the individual themselves. Factors considered include:
- Individual's abilities and needs: Motor skills, cognitive level, visual acuity, and receptive language skills.
- Communication environments: Where and how the person communicates most often (e.g., home, school, work).
- Preferences: The individual's preferences for symbols, voice, and device type.
- Support systems: The availability of training and ongoing support for both the user and their communication partners.
Training and consistent practice are vital for successful implementation. Family members and communication partners also receive training to understand and effectively respond to the aided communication system.
For more information on AAC, consider exploring resources from organizations like the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).
