A qualitative metasynthesis of the meaning of speech-generating devices for people with complex communication needs

Abstract

The aim of this metasynthesis review of published qualitative research was to investigate the lived experience and meaning ascribed to speech-generating devices (SGDs) by people with complex communication needs and their familiar communication partners. Bibliographic databases were searched up to June 2016, and selected articles were assessed for their relevance to the research aim. The metasynthesis included 21 original articles and resulted in the identification of six main themes, each of which was comprised of two or more sub-themes that related to the experience of using SGD: It’s an Inefficient Voice, It’s Not a Natural Voice, Making the Most of This Voice, It’s My Voice, It’s More Than a Voice, and Having a Voice: Being Heard. The findings depict how use of an SGD is a complex process of understanding the limitations of the device, acknowledging expectations of society, using strategies to optimize communication, being aware of what an SGD represents, and using the SGD to enable social participation and a sense of empowerment.

Keywords:

• Speech-generating device
• lived experience
• augmentative and alternative communication
• assistive communication
• qualitative research
• metasynthesis

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to acknowledge the work of Hal Loewen, Librarian for the College of Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Manitoba, who conducted the literature search for this study. This study was conducted as part of the third and fourth authors’ master degree course requirements.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Notes

1 Lightwriter and Dynavox are registered trademarks of Tobii Dynavox, Pittsburgh, PA.

2 Light Talker and Delta Talker are manufactured by Prentke Romich Company, Wooster, OH.