Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices provide a means of communication for those typically unable to express themselves verbally. These devices are designed for individuals with a variety of conditions, ranging from autism to Parkinson's disease. Depending on the diagnosis, the type of AAC varies, each approaching the challenge of communication with a unique solution.
Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS)
Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) devices are perhaps the most easily used, though also restrictive of the AAC devices. They typically come in the form of hand-held tablets with an array of pictures across the front panel. When pressed, these pictures trigger a recording meant to communicate specific ideas. For instance, a picture of a dog can be pressed, which in turn plays the phrase, "I want to play with the dog." Often food items, hygienic needs and other essentials are included in the array. PECS are generally intended for proverbial children, often with autism. Although some parents are hesitant to use the devices, worried that the PECS will stunt the growth of normal communication, research has shown that PECS actually encourage children to speak and earn the rewards of using words.
Text to Speech (TTS)
For individuals who can type, a more dynamic form of AAC is provided by Text to Speech (TTS) devices. These receive input from keyboards and output a digitized approximation of the words typed. While PECS devices are restricted to the phrases preprogrammed into the buttons, a TTS device can conceivably communicate anything. In addition to hand-held devices, TTS services can easily be accessed through online applications or even installed onto mobile devices or laptops, making this technology highly accessible without the need for specialized electronics.
TTY Telephones
If an individual can still speak but has trouble with certain phrases or suffers from bouts of poor speech control, a TTY telephone can be an ideal solution for phone calls. While the user has the option to simply speak, if the listener on the other end of the line has trouble understanding particular words, the user can type them into a keyboard, prompting the TTY telephone to digitally speak that word. This combination of spoken with typed phrase allows users to communicate with greater comfort if they prefer speaking to typing.
Tags: Alternative Communication, Communication System, Communication System PECS, Exchange Communication, Exchange Communication System
