The term ‘augmentative’ means to supplement, aid or add to. Augmentative communication adds to or assists your existing communication system, which may include spoken language, gestures or written communication.
Augmentative communication can be non-technological such as using signs, gestures, and symbols or technological, such as using communication boards and switches, speech output systems, speech amplification systems or sound picture boards. Email and SMS messaging has enhanced communication avenues for individuals that are non-verbal but able to operate a computer input device, allowing them to communicate freely via written means.
Workplace solutions and adjustments
Augmentative communication aids can assist people with vision impairment, hearing impairment, intellectual disability, neurological disorders or learning difficulties to communicate more efficiently and clearly.
Individual assessment of communication abilities and requirements will assist in identifying the most appropriate communication aids that can enhance independent communication.
Further information on equipment that may assist can be found at the following link:
References
Health Science 2010, Augmentative Communications and Speech Generating Devices, Health Science, Princeton, viewed 13 July 2011, http://www.speechgeneratingdevices.com/.
Independent Living Centres Australia Inc. 2011, Communication Devices--Voice Output, Independent Living Centres Australia Inc., Sydney, viewed 13 July 2011, http://www.ilcaustralia.org/search3.asp?State=WA&MC=61&MinC=4.
Noviatech 2011, Speech Generating Devices, Novita Children’s Services Inc., Regency Park, viewed 13 July 2011, http://www.novitatech.org.au/subcategory.asp?p=247&id=1.
Technical Solutions Australia (no date specified), Communication Aids, Technical Solutions Australia, Melbourne, viewed 13 July 2011, http://www.tecsol.com.au/ComAids.htm.
Deal (no date specified), Augmentative Communication, Vicnet, Melbourne, viewed 13 July 2011, http://home.vicnet.net.au/~dealcc/augcom.html.