Communication Facts: Special Populations: Augmentative and Alternative Communication - 2008 Edition
By American Speech-Language-Hearing Association(Pages: 3) Publication Date: 2008
Fact sheet on users of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems. An AAC system is defined as an integrated group of components including symbols, aids, strategies, and techniques used by individuals with severe speech and language disabilities as supplements to gestural, spoken and written means of communication. The general demographics of users is outlined, including the types of individuals benefiting from the use of AAC systems, including those with long-term communication impairments such as dysarthria, and those with temporary conditions such as tracheostomy placement. Children as users of AAC are discussed, wherein the importance of early AAC intervention is stressed, and the poor AAC awareness and expertise among some clinicians as well as the lack of empirically validated strategies for teaching reading skills to children who use AAC are highlighted. A section on adults as users of AAC discusses the importance of increasing awareness of AAC technology available to those who need it, and expanding employment opportunities for adults using AAC devices.
Published by:
American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (Website:http://www.asha.org)
Link to text: http://www.asha.org/research/reports/aac.htm
