alternative and augmentative communication | speech generating devices

There are many steps to finding the most suitable communication device for an individual. Sometimes it can be a long process and often the time can be well spent in making an informed decision with all the necessary 'homework' carried out. In some cases time may be of the essence and there is a pressure to find a solution. It is not uncommon for the entire process may take one year. Sometimes it may be accomplished in a few weeks. A general principal of 'best practice' is that people should always have a non-electronic (low tech) system in addition to an electronic system with voice. Examples of such systems are, photo board, word board, eye-gaze board, picture dictionary and so on. See your local Speech Pathologist for advice on these options.

Here is a description of the typical process people experience when seeking speech generating devices for communication. Of course each situation will be unique but there will be the usual constraints of loan equipment availability and funding. While this is 'typical' there are many situations that may not follow this path. This is not prescriptive in any way, merely informative.   

1. Usually the first port of call is to contact the Assistive Technology Service in your state or territory. These services usually have devices available from a wide range of companies. They offer impartial advice about the most suitable equipment for an individual and there may be an opportunity to try the equipment. Some services have equipment libraries offering short-term trial. These centres are usually staffed by therapists (usually Speech Pathologist and Occupational Therapists) who can assist in matching the individual's needs with the available equipment. Some Speech Pathologist may have the expertise to provide this type of advice without the need for attending an assistive technology centre.
2. Once an initial evaluation is completed the next step is usually to borrow the equipment so that it can be tried for a week or so. Several devices may be borrowed and compared. Comparisons should not just be made in terms of how the person uses the device, but also in terms of it's reliability, ease of use and the level of support it requires, and whether the support people can manage the necessary support, for example in setting it up, updating/programming, maintaining and charging it.
3. After the trials, it is time to make a decision about the preferred device and then set about obtaining one. Devices may be obtained in the following way:
   1. Sometimes organisations can provide members with devices on long-term loan, for example some Motor Neurone Disease Associations,
   2. some states have funding for devices if you meet the criteria and
   3. some people either buy privately with their own funds or
   4. some seek private funding through service clubs or other avenues.
   5. some people are eligible for funding through the Department of Veterans Affairs, private insurance funds or motor accident insurers. Again criteria apply and you will need to seek these out locally as conditions tend to vary from state to state.
4. Once funding is obtained the device may be purchased or supplied by an organisation that has purchased it for the user.

How Zyteq can help |

• we can send you brochures and information on equipment - although the web site usually has the most up-to-date information
• we provide equipment demonstrations around the country, but usually there may be a wait until we are visiting your area. Please contact us to make a request or register your interest. We also have resellers in most states so they may be able to assist also.
• we provide equipment for short-term loan for the purpose of trialling
• we sell equipment either directly or through our resellers
• once you have equipment from Zyteq we may be able to provide training when we are in your area.
• please call to discuss your situation and we will see what we can offer
• please note: we do NOT offer assessment or evaluations to determine the most suitable device

terminology

If the product names and descriptions are not meaningful to you the following are guidelines to help direct you to the most appropriate information contained here. It is presumed you are exploring options for someone you know or work with.

1. Does the person have difficulties with functional speech for day to day communication? Yes › please see question 2 below (equipment for people who need augmentative and alternative communication [AAC] systems) No › see the categories below that relate to equipment for people with physical disabilities and cognitive challenges for independence. Sometimes › if the person has low volume or variable volume speech the ZaVOX speech amplifier may be of interest. This simply makes speech louder.
2. For communication — can the person spell what they want to say (perhaps by writing or pointing to an alphabet board or by eye pointing to letters) ? Yes › you may like to investigate the LightWRITER, Allora and Polyana 4 . Windbag software may also be of interest. No › if the person is unable to spell what they wish to communicate they may be using a picture communication system or signing or perhaps they do not have a system. The individual may be able to spell some words, recognize or read whole words, or find the starting letter of some words. You may like to investigate the Tellus Smart, Tellus Mobi, Zingui, Talara, Bespoke, The Grid 2.
3. Can the person point with their fingers and press keys ? Yes › refer to question 2 as these systems can all be operated in this way (by direct access) No › some devices or models can be operated by a switch and scanning or other indirect methods of access. This means that it is not necessary to have use of fingers and hands to operate the equipment. If the person has a reliable and consistent movement, even with foot, or chin or a minimal muscle movement, then many of the communication devices can be operated by activating a switch with just this movement. Of the equipment listed above all offer switch access also. You can see the available switches at this web site and there are many others from other companies, which can be used with our equipment.  
4. Does the person have a physical disability where assistance is required with day to day tasks? Yes › people requiring assistance with physical activities may find the following products of interest: PROG, The Grid, headpointer, laser pointer, intelligaze or the GEWA Access computer keyboards
5. Does the person have difficulty with intellectual processes such as time concepts, literacy and navigating a standard computer keyboard? Yes › the 1/4 hour watch is a specific item for understanding of time passing. Alternative computer keyboards can be useful for people who do not have literacy skills or who need tasks simplified. See the Flexiboard in particular.