Augmentative Communication

Augmentative communication: Kim, who has Rett Syndrome uses a head pointer to tell her mother what she wants to do.

Augmentative and Alternative Communication is the formal title for non-speech communication. In fact, the difference between augmentative and alternative communication is merely the difference between partial and total dependency on non-speech communication.

Speech may be replaced or augmented by:

Communication aids are devices developed or adapted for use by people with severe communication impairments. Because they have very varied skills, needs and problems there is a large range of communication aids.

Some people with severe communication impairments can use their hands; others cannot, and have to use alternatives such as mouth sticks, headsticks, switches or eye-pointing. Some can read and spell; others cannot, and need communication aids on which language elements are represented by pictures or symbols. Some individuals use wheelchairs which can accommodate large communication devices; others walk and need small, light aids. Some have the funds to purchase high tech equipment; others do not.

A communication aid may be as simple as a piece of cardboard with no and yes written on it or as complex as a laptop computer controlled with one switch which speaks and allows the user to speak on the phone or type an essay.

What is the best non-speech communication strategy?

The best non-speech communication strategy (or combination of strategies) is the one which allows the person with severe communication impairments to communicate as freely as possible in as many situations as possible to the maximum number of people.

Contents Severe Communication Impairment Facilitated Communication Training Entry Point