Communication
Being able to communicate is an essential human right but can be challenging for some. Difficulty with communication is often the most pressing issue for people with disabilities and their families.
It can feel overwhelming, but it does not have to be. The information below is a good place to start. See also our AAC Information and Favorite AAC Resources pages.
Communication Supports
Communication supports range from fairly simple to complex and can frequently take time to develop and learn. Communication supports are also called augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). There are a variety of supports that can help with participation in community and expressing thoughts.
Communication supports can be helpful if:
- Speech is difficult to understand or fatiguing
- Speech is not used at all or very little
- Speech is challenging to understand
- Remembering and being able to use words is challenging
- Speech and language is difficult to use in any situation
- It is frequently difficult to get your meaning understood
Examples of communication supports:
- A dedicated computer programmed with voice output—speech generating device (SGD)
- Software on a computer, phone, or tablet with voice output
- Single message “buttons” programmed with voice output
- Visual symbols on a board or in a book
- Partner-training to support communication
- Auditory lists of words, phrases, or letters to be chosen when provided by a partner, called “partner-assisted scanning”
- Gestures or sign language
- Drawing, pointing, or miming and acting out to get meaning across
AAC Evaluations
Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) evaluations are conducted by speech language pathologists (SLPs) who are trained in AAC. Often, an occupational therapist (OT) or physical therapist (PT) may assist in the evaluation if an individual experiences complex movement, positioning, vision, or other sensory challenges.
You can inquire about AAC services at:
- Hospitals or SLP clinics
- Local School Districts
- Vocational Rehabilitation
In the AT Lab
Video
Watch “Natasha’s Voice”
This 5-minute video shows how the AT Lab assisted Natasha with finding her voice.
Consultations and Trainings
The Lab offers consultations and trainings around a wide variety of communication supports. These can be conducted in the Lab or off-site.
The Lab supports the practice of multi-modal communication. This means using many different means to communicate. This is how all humans communicate.
As an example, an individual could use facial expressions and vocalizations for quick messages throughout the day, use a “light-tech” paper-based communication book when they are outside in the sun or in bed, and use a “high-tech” communication device for longer conversations and messages at work.
Quote from a Parent
“The AT Lab team worked with us over several months, successfully breaking down the process of communicating into easy-to-follow instructions so we can effectively help our child begin to communicate with a partner-assisted book and an iPad app. He has so much to say and we’re so excited to continue to build upon this foundation so he can tell his story.
“Team members also helped coordinate learning around academic markers like literacy and numbers. We never realized there were other ways for him to learn letters and read. They also helped us create an inclusion plan for camp this summer. The AT Lab program has changed my son’s world and his ability to be included in his school and community.”—Shanna, Portland
More on AAC
We have more information on augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) on two pages: