Outcome of recommendations for augmentative communication in children

Abstract

Some children with severe motor disorders have unintelligible speech, and may be recommended augmentative communication systems, such as a symbol chart or a voice output aid. The paper reports the outcome after 15-18 months for 35 children of recommendations for augmentative communication. Using structured questionnaires, parents were asked whether equipment was provided as recommended. Their perception of success in children's use of augmentative aids was recorded and related to potentially influential factors. Twenty-five symbol systems, 10 speech output devices and 11 switches were received; 18 symbol systems were used for communication and 10 were used frequently. Seven speech output devices were used for communication but only two were reported to be used frequently. Factors leading to more successful outcomes include early receipt of the aid, perceived adequate local training in the use of the aid, and children aged 6 years or more at initial assessment. The findings also suggest that referring professionals will need to be better informed about the nature and limitations of augmentative communication aids, and that improved local professional input and careful interagency planning and co-ordination are required to achieve optimal outcome.

The Dual Challenges of Aided Communication and Adolescence

“…The family may be the context in which individuals are least likely to use aided communication (Ferm et al, 2001;Kenny, 1996;Ko, McConachie, & Jolleff, 1998;Stevenson, 2001;Trefler & Crislip, 1985). Explicit and conscious choices of communication mode may be evident.…”

A microswitch for vocalization responses to foster environmental control in children with multiple disabilities

“…means whereby a person can activate toys, sound and light displays, or other sources of stimulation. Thus, microswitches may enable a person to achieve forms of positive interaction with the environment and a level of control over the stimuli that the environment can provide (Crawford & Schuster 1993; Gutowski 1996; Ko et al 1998).…”

A microswitch program to foster simple foot and leg movements in adult wheelchair users with multiple disabilities

“…Microswitches are employed with people with multiple disabilities to help them use their limited response abilities in an enjoyable and constructive manner (Gutowski, 1996;Leatherby, Gast, Wolery, & Collins, 1992;Saunders et al, 2001). Through these tools, disabled people can increase their level of alertness and activity, improve their sensory input and exercise self-determination rather than remaining dependent on caregivers (Ko, McConachie, & Jolleff, 1998;Sullivan, Laverick, & Lewis, 1995;Wehmeyer & Schwartz, 1998).…”