One of the main reasons people communicate with one another is that they have wants and needs, and they want to share these things through verbal communication. For many people—those with a speech disorder, injury, or neurological condition—communicating with others can be a very difficult challenge day-to-day. Assistive devices can help solve this problem by providing ways for people to communicate thoughts that they think very positively, in most cases, while having to verbalize.
If you care for someone with a speech and language disorder, are a speech-language pathologist or are the person with a speech disorder, then this guide is designed to provide a comprehensive overview of how assistive technology devices for communication work, the different types of assistive technology devices, and tips on how to find the assistive devices you are looking for to help facilitate communication online.
What Are Speech Assist Devices?
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices, also called speech assist devices, can help those who have difficulty speaking and/or comprehending spoken language communicate with others. These communications tools help to supplement or replace traditional speech for persons with disabilities, such as:
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Cerebral Palsy
ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis)
Aphasia (often following a stroke)
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
assistive technology devices help kids and adults with disabilities perform tasks they might otherwise find difficult or impossible.
Assistive Devices for Speech Disorders: Who Benefits Most?
Children with Autism or Developmental Delays
Children who are non-verbal or have limited speaking ability can benefit from the use of an Augmentative or Alternative Communication (AAC) device that will give them a voice. The use of an AAC device can help reduce frustration and improve behavior.
Stroke Survivors with Aphasia
Speech Generating Devices (SGD) will allow adults with Aphasia to regain communication that has been disrupted by a stroke that has affected the language center of the brain.
Individuals with ALS or Progressive Conditions
Individuals with progressive diseases will continue to communicate through devices such as eye gaze devices as their motor abilities decline.
Post-Laryngectomy Patients
Electrolarynx devices and Tracheoesophageal Voice Prostheses will give people a way to have audible speech after surgical removal of their larynx.
Individuals with Cerebral Palsy
Individuals with limited motor abilities can develop a customized access method (i.e. head tracking, switch scanning) in order to use these devices.
Conclusion:
Assistive devices for speech are more than just tools; they give people a voice. They can provide a way for an individual to maintain their dignity and independence through the ability to communicate — something we as human beings have an inherent right to do. It’s no wonder that the field of assistive technology continues to grow every day, providing new and inspiring ways for individuals who have difficulty speaking to make themselves understood through means that are more accessible than ever before!
If someone you know has a communication disorder, the best way to start finding the right communication device is to talk to a qualified speech-language pathologist. The number of speech devices available online has increased dramatically, so you may be surprised by how affordable the device you need can be and how close it is to your reach.