Identifying Device Candidates

One of the most frequently asked questions among SLPs who are new to high-tech AAC is, “Who is a good candidate for a Lingraphica AAC device?”

There are no specific prerequisite skills to begin using AAC.

At Lingraphica, we believe that every individual with communication challenges deserves the opportunity to explore and benefit from Augmentative and Alternative Communication. While each individual’s journey is unique, AAC tools can often support meaningful communication and connection, regardless of age or diagnosis.

 

“Lingraphica has very responsive, friendly and knowledgeable contact staff. Ease of getting started made a big difference.
Everyone was very supportive of myself as the clinician as well as the family.”
– SLP who conducted a trial

Common Traits of Successful Users

While there are no requirements to try AAC, individuals who find success with Lingraphica devices often share these traits:

  • A Desire for Improved Communication: Motivated to express themselves and connect with others.
  • Supportive Family or Communication Partners: Loved ones or caregivers who encourage and assist in device use.
  • Willingness to Try New Tools: Openness to learning new ways to enhance communication.

Clinical Considerations

Successful AAC device users often have:

  • Moderate to Severe Communication Impairment: Many Lingraphica device users will have a mod-severe or severe expressive speech/language impairment, or a moderate impairment with a degenerative condition (e.g., PPA).
  • Physical Access: Users must be able to physically interact with the device through touch, a stylus, or adaptive accessories.

Some of the diagnoses Lingraphica frequently works with include:

Aphasia

Developmental Disabilities

Autism

Traumatic Brain Injury

Apraxia

Primary Progressive Aphasia

Dysarthria

Parkinson’s

The Role of Motivation and Support

  • Supportive Relationships: Communication partners can help bridge the gap between what the user wants to do and what they may need help achieving. Successful device users often have a support system to help with setup, motivation, and ongoing use of the device.
  • Intrinsic Motivation: A desire to enhance communication and increase life participation often leads to consistent and effective device use.

That’s it! Despite many pervasive AAC myths, there are no specific prerequisite skills or requirements that your patient must meet. Lingraphica devices are built to be accessible even to those who have language and/or cognitive impairments, or who have never used technology before. There’s no minimum amount of time post-onset you need to wait — traditional therapy and AAC can work together to maximize communication and recovery (Dietz, Wallace & Weissling, 2020).

Still not sure if your patient will benefit? A device trial is your opportunity to find out, with no obligation.

Lingraphica Can Help

Lingraphica offers free one-on-one consultations for SLPs who have someone on caseload who might be a good fit for an AAC device but aren’t entirely sure where to start. Call us at 866-570-8775 or visit the link below to get started.

Schedule a Free Consultation