Communication Devices
A communication aid is anything that helps an individual communicate more effectively with those around them. Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) is the term used to describe the different methods of communication which can be used to supplement or enhance the more usual methods of speech and writing when these are impaired. There are various ways of breaking down communication aids for example; text-based or picture based, aided or unaided, recorded or synthetic speech; however, one of the simplest ways is to divide them into two groups:
A user will probably have a preference for the type of aid they want to use but it is important that as many factors are considered as possible eg portability, appearance, physical access and control, the situation in which the aid will be used, and the number of symbols or amount of text the aid will contain. This will help ensure the right communication aid is selected. The assessment and selection of equipment should be a consultation process involving the user, their family or carer, and an appropriate professional eg assistive technology expert or speech and language therapist.
