Assistive Technology: Communication Products

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Original Editors - Kirenga Bamurange Liliane

Top Contributors - Kirenga Bamurange Liliane, Naomi O'Reilly, Kim Jackson, Lucinda hampton and Angeliki Chorti      

Introduction[edit | edit source]

The term Assistive Technology is generic term used to describe assistive, adaptive and rehabilitative devices for people with varying degrees of disability. They are aimed at assisting or expanding human function or capabilities. Assistive Technologies can be complex and range from sophisticated computerized communication systems and software programs to a simple handle on a telephone. [1] Recent studies show that up to 1% of the world population suffers a degree of speech, language or communication need. [2] There are communication devices, also called Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices, that are equipment people use to communicate without using verbal speech.[3] The lives of people with communication difficulties can greatly be boosted by the Augmentative and Alternative Communication ( AAC) systems by promoting independence, social relationships and education. [4]According to WHO, more than 1 billion people globally need 1 or more assistive products but only 1 in 10 people in need have access to assistive products. [5]

Who might need a communication device?[edit | edit source]

The assistive communication products may be particularly helpful for people living with conditions such:

Types of Communication Products[edit | edit source]

  1. Unaided communication systems use body language to communicate. They include gestures, body language, and/or sign language.
  2. Low-tech AAC is any type of aid that does not require batteries or electricity. They may include simple pen and paper to write messages on, pictures boards, that can be carried to aid communication by can pointing on to images, words, pictures, drawings, or letters.
  3. High-tech AAC - Any aid that requires electricity or batteries. This includes specialized devices, software, smartphone applications, electronic communication boards, and keyboards




References [edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ Maor D, Currie J, Drewry R. The effectiveness of assistive technologies for children with special needs: A review of research-based studies. European Journal of Special Needs Education. 2011 Aug 1;26(3):283-98.
  2. ↑ Elsahar Y, Hu S, Bouazza-Marouf K, Kerr D, Mansor A. Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) advances: A review of configurations for individuals with a speech disability. Sensors. 2019 Jan;19(8):1911.
  3. ↑ Communicators – AAC. Available from: https://enablingdevices.com/product-category/communication-devices/ (Accessed, 07/07/2021)
  4. ↑ Baxter S, Enderby P, Evans P, Judge S. Interventions using high-technology communication devices: a state of the art review. Folia Phoniatrica et Logopaedica. 2012;64(3):137-44.
  5. ↑ Assistive technology. Available from: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/assistive-technology (Accessed, 07/07/2021)
 
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