Augmentative communication

Definition

Augmentative communication refers to methods and tools used to assist individuals with communication challenges in expressing their thoughts, needs, and ideas. This approach is especially vital for those with acquired language disorders like aphasia, as it offers alternative ways to communicate when traditional speech is impaired. The strategies involved can include sign language, picture boards, or electronic devices that generate speech, allowing users to engage in social interactions more effectively.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Augmentative communication can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with aphasia by facilitating better interaction with family, friends, and caregivers.
2. Various types of augmentative communication strategies can be tailored to an individual’s specific needs, preferences, and capabilities.
3. Training and support are crucial for both users and their communication partners to effectively utilize augmentative communication methods.
4. Augmentative communication techniques can be temporary or permanent depending on the severity of the communication disorder and the individual's progress.
5. The use of visual aids, such as picture exchange systems or symbol-based communication boards, is a common strategy within augmentative communication.

Review Questions

• How does augmentative communication assist individuals with aphasia in their daily interactions?
  • Augmentative communication provides individuals with aphasia alternative methods to express themselves when traditional speech is not possible. By using tools like picture boards or electronic devices that generate speech, these individuals can convey their thoughts and needs more effectively. This approach not only supports their ability to communicate but also enhances social interactions, helping them maintain connections with family and friends.
• What are some examples of tools used in augmentative communication, and how do they cater to different user needs?
  • Tools used in augmentative communication include sign language, picture exchange systems, and speech generating devices (SGDs). Each of these tools can be customized to meet the unique needs of the user; for example, a person who has difficulty speaking might use a SGD that converts text into speech, while someone who understands visual cues better may prefer a picture board. This versatility ensures that users can find effective ways to communicate based on their abilities and preferences.
• Evaluate the impact of effective training on the use of augmentative communication strategies among individuals with acquired language disorders.
  • Effective training significantly enhances the success of augmentative communication strategies for individuals with acquired language disorders. When both users and their communication partners receive appropriate training, they learn how to use tools and techniques efficiently, leading to improved interaction and understanding. This empowerment fosters greater independence for users and strengthens relationships with others by ensuring clearer exchanges of information and emotional expression.

Related terms

Aphasia: A language disorder that affects a person's ability to communicate, typically resulting from brain injury, which may impact speaking, understanding, reading, or writing.

Speech Generating Devices (SGDs): Electronic devices that produce speech output to aid individuals in communication; they can range from simple devices to complex systems.

Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC): A set of tools and strategies designed to support or replace spoken language for those who have difficulty communicating verbally.