Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), including speech generating devices (SGDs), offer people with complex communication needs the potential for improved communication and participation in society. Despite rapid and ongoing development in AAC technology, its potential is not being fully realised. The number of people with complex…

This position statement by the National Joint Committee for the Communication Needs of Persons with Severe Disabilities addresses access to communication services. It states that eligibility for communication services should be based on individual needs and argues that eligibility determination based on a priori criteria violate recommended…

This article provides an overview of the importance of alternative and augmentative communication devices (ACDs) in the lives of individuals who do not rely on speech to meet all of their communication needs. Different types of ACDs are described and some specific examples of their use in different situations are presented. (Contains references.)…

This technical report was developed to provide support for a position statement by the National Joint Committee for the Communication Needs of Persons with Severe Disabilities that addresses access to communication services. It argues that eligibility policies and practices often preclude individuals from access to needed communication services.…