One of the most frequently asked questions among clinical teams who are new to high-tech AAC is, “Who is a good candidate for a Lingraphica AAC device?” There are actually few requirements to giving a Lingraphica AAC device a try. In general, any patient who has the following characteristics can be a good candidate:
A good candidate for a Lingraphica AAC device is someone with a mod-severe or severe expressive speech/language impairment, or a moderate impairment with a degenerative condition (e.g., PPA). Some of the diagnoses Lingraphica frequently works with include:
We encourage OTs to collaborate with their patient’s clinical team to get an accurate picture of the patient’s impairment level.
OTs are in the unique position to assess the patient’s ability to physically access the device in order to make selections. With Lingraphica devices, users who are physically impaired have the option to use any of several different device accessories.
Although Lingraphica AAC devices are simple to use, the reality is that many users will continue to need help using the device. Having a supportive family member or communication partner helps to bridge the gap between what the user would like to do but might be unable to. Additionally, they may help to motivate the user to continue to use the device consistently.
Finally, it helps when the user is motivated to increase their communication and life participation. When motivated, a device user is more likely to consistently use the device enough to better their communication and quality of life. Incorporating device use in OT sessions can help encourage an otherwise less-than-motivated user.
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 offers free one-on-one consultations for clinicians 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.
