AAC Definition
AAC or augmentative and alternative communication provides communication for clients who are either nonverbal or difficult to understand. Augment means to assist, to supplement, and for someone who is difficult understand, sometimes this technology augments their existing verbalization. For people who are non-verbal, this type of technology replaces or provides an alternative to their communication. Specifically, AAC includes speech generating devices that provide speech output. Sometimes, these are referred to as communication devices. I will probably use both of those terms interchangeably in this course today.
OT Clinical Role
Clients who utilize this technology are typically evaluated by a speech language pathologist who specializes in this area, but the OT is often part of the evaluation as well, specifically addressing those areas that we are covering today. Our goal is to determine how can the client access their technology? We will talk about a variety of access methods. Where are we going to place this device, both for optimal access to it, but also for visual regard? How are we going to mount this device to a mobility base to keep it in a secure location for access and vision? Does the client need to control this device using other technologies, such as a power wheelchair access method?
