Introduction: Augmentative & alternative communication (AAC) speech generating devices (SGD) and software continue to evolve and are becoming more available around the world. This case study highlights the AAC journey of an 8 year old child diagnosed with Cri-du-Chat syndrome who overcame barriers to access AAC to meaningfully use of her SGD to engage with her peers and parents, school activities, and connect with others during daily routines.
Objectives: This case study presentation will define the interprofessional approach to address the complex challenges of communication while technology continues to advance and be more readily available. Participants will a be able to 1) differentiate meaningful communication skills between low tech and high tech AAC during daily routines; 2) identify pros and cons of available communication apps for iPad; and 3) understand how to modify and customize SGD to optimize access and symbol selection during daily routines.
Approach: This presentation will highlight the sequence of assessing and implementing access while incorporating a family-centered approach for meaningful interactions. Participants will also be introduced to 3 stages of the Access Learning Process for successful AAC implementation during therapeutic interventions.
Practice Implications: As technology continues to evolve, OTs have an emerging roll to assess access to communication devices. Opportunities for children to communicate through speech generating devices (SGD) is expanding and OTs have the expertise to optimize an individual’s ability to access communication technology for meaningful engagement.
Conclusion: Walking and communicating are common goals reported by parents of children with disabilities. Clinicians across the human health field and other systems (e.g., education and social assistance) are working together to incorporate communication technologies for positive developmental outcomes.