Consumer response to AAC devices: Acquisition, training, use, and satisfaction

Abstract

Providing recommendations for augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices is a standard component of an augmentative communication specialist's job responsibilities. This study was designed to determine the outcome of AAC equipment recommendations made by speech-language pathologists as part of a rehabilitation technology team. A questionnaire was mailed to 112 former patients who had been evaluated within a 6-year time span. Information requested included timeliness of device acquisition, funding source, amount of training, frequency of use, and satisfaction with the device. Seventy-six questionnaires were returned and provided sufficient information for analysis. Demographic data were compiled and chisquare analyses were computed. Patients were grouped according to four medical diagnostic categories: cerebral palsy, traumatic brain injury, stroke/neurologic diseases, and other disabilities. They ranged in age from 3 to 79 years. Results revealed 71% of the respondents received devices. Third-party payers funded 81% of these devices. Significant differences were found between funding source and type of device funded, system use and diagnosis, and satisfaction level based on patient group (inpatient, outpatient, or day students).

• augmentative and alternative communication (AAC)
• communication device
• consumer
• funding
• questionnaire
• service delivery
• technology
• users' perspective