A proposed new model for augmentative and alternative communication evaluation and system selection has the clinical team identifying the client's functional needs, skills, and environmental factors from which a specification for an ideal device is generated. This generic device is then presented to manufacturers who respond by proposing a system…

A case study of a difficult to manage nonspeaking young man with brain injury is presented. Assessment and intervention indicated severe cognitive-linguistic deficits, severe physical involvement of all extremities, extensive surgical management, visual perceptual and acuity deficits, and behavioral problems. (Author/DB)