Ways of Augmenting Communication through Technology KEYCOMM-Lothian Communication Technology Service

Aim of AAC To help individuals with severe communication impairment make use of a range of strategies to enhance their communication ability

Functional Communication Use of effective communication in everyday contexts Being able to participate in everyday activities Fostering independence and autonomy

People who can benefit People with Severe Communication Impairment secondary to: Cerebral Palsy, Autism, Down Syndrome, Stroke, Acquired Brain Injury, Developmental Delay, Learning Disabilities, Parkinson’s Disease, Motor Neurone Disease, Multiple Sclerosis

Basic Principles Communication disability has a profound impact on social welfare, health, education and employment Technology can improve the life of an individual Support is essential to families, users and carers Joint decision making

We all communicate in many different ways Each individual needs a range of communication strategies at their disposal Speech, gesture, signs, drawing, communication board, voice output communication aid

Main objective-4 I’s Interactive Included Integrated Involved IN COMMUNICATION and DAILY ACTIVITIES

Any strategy or system must: Be flexible to accommodate changing needs. May need different types of AAC in different phases of recovery Allow for participation and control

Team working The team works collaboratively Joint assessments Joint working with outside agencies User and family are key

Types of Communication Face to face communication Non face to face including telephone, intercom and door entry system, Controlling environment

Low tech communication aids

Medium tech communication aids allow for choice making

High tech communication aids

Switches Range of switches Pressing or squeezing Can be operated by movement or sound Activated by any part of body

Non face to face communication Door entry system Telephone Intercom Internet and

Controlling your environment Buzzer system getting attention Any mains appliance through power link Lights, television, CD player Alarm system

Simple Environmental Control

Alarm System

What to do… Contact AAC service in your area or Scottish service Request AAC assessment Will the user benefit from use of technology to improve communication, participation, control?

Support Training Communication Environment Communication Partner Opportunities for communication

Main aim is to make sure individual is able to… Participate Feel included Access daily activities including education,leisure and work Be as independent as possible Communication is vital!

KEYCOMM- Lothian Communication Technology Service 40 Broomhouse Crescent Edinburgh EH11 3UB