High-Technology Augmentative and Alternative Communication in Poststroke Aphasia: A Review of the Factors That Contribute to Successful Augmentative and Alternative Communication Use.
Shannon Taylor, Sarah Jane Wallace, and Sarah Elizabeth Wallace
Shannon Taylor, Sarah Jane Wallace, and Sarah Elizabeth Wallace
Key Takeaways:
Summary:
High-tech AAC is becoming an increasingly common tool used as a compensatory strategy for people with aphasia. However, research into what specifically enables success with AAC has historically been somewhat limited. The authors of this article reviewed the available literature in order to create a thorough list of factors to consider and address when using AAC in the aphasia population.
Several studies have documented that people with aphasia can be very successful using high-tech AAC, especially as systems have evolved and technology has improved. However, challenges have also been documented, including that people with aphasia tend to take longer to learn AAC than individuals with other communication impairments, and, as a population, do not appear to generalize as well to untrained items. The exact reasons for this and the factors that contribute to success is an area that needs additional research.
However, based on factors identified that contribute to success in other populations, the authors propose several factors in three key areas that are likely to determine a user’s success (or lack thereof). These include:
While this list is not exhaustive, it is an excellent starting point when introducing AAC to a patient. Each of these factors can be considered as part of an AAC evaluation. The authors also suggest several management strategies to address various factors. The authors also stress that therapist beliefs may need to be addressed. For instance, success with an dispositivo CAA does not always mean that the patient uses the device independently; partner-dependent use is a good outcome for many people with aphasia. Furthermore, the earlier introduction of AAC is encouraged, rather than viewing AAC as a last resort.
Incorporating the Research into Clinical Practice with Lingraphica
When considering whether a patient is a good candidate for an AAC device, the focus is typically on the level of language impairment. However, this article outlines several additional factors to consider whenever using a device with someone with aphasia. Some strategies that can be used to address the factors in each area include:
By taking these factors into account and considering the best ways to manage each of them – or at least being aware of their impact – potential barriers can often be addressed and corrected to increase the patient’s success.
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