The use of augmentative and alternative communication techniques in aphasias

Abstract

Augmentative and alternative techniques include manual signing in sign language, gestures, pantomime; or graphic selection of drawings, pictograms and symbols from boards or computer monitors. They are indicated in substitution for oral and written communication, as well as in their support. To aphasics, their function is primarily augmentative rather than alternative. They are indicated for the rehabilitation of both oral and written communication, and for augmenting communication in specific contexts of daily living. As resources for rehabilitation therapy and daily communication, computerized systems based on pictograms with digitized speech output are indicated for aphasics. Digitized speech, in contrast with synthesized one, fosters speech comprehension, since it retains emotional tone and prosody, which are usually preserved in aphasics. The evolution of the use of such resources is described on the basis of clinical and experimental literature.