Parent perspectives on augmentative and alternative communication in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Parental support is an important part of introducing an augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) system to a child. Professionals providing AAC services to children with complex communication needs should practice family-centered service provision. The aim of this study was to explore Sri Lankan parents’ perspectives on AAC and their lived experiences. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 parents of children with complex communication needs. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the findings, with the following themes identified: (a) External Systems, (b) Impact on the Family, (c) Impact on the Child, and (d) Communication (including AAC). Findings from this study provide important information for speech-language therapists providing services to families from low- and middle-income countries. In particular, parents reported several positive aspects of AAC. However, parents also reported challenges, including speech-language therapist’s lack of knowledge of and training in AAC.

Keywords:

• Augmentative and alternative communication
• low- and middle-income countries
• parents’ perspectives

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Notes

1 Transcend MP330 8GB is a product of Transcend Information Inc, headquartered in Taipei, Taiwan.

2 Go Talk and Go Talk Now are products of the Attainment Company of Verona, WA, www.attainmentcompany.com.

Additional information

Funding

This study was supported by funds awarded by the University of Kelaniya to the first author.