Challenges and Opportunities in Using Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Technologies: Design Considerations for Adults with Severe Disabilities

There is a growing body of research that demonstrates the value of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) technologies for children and adults with complex communication needs. Despite these advancements, we have found that adults with severe intellectual disabilities and their families still face many challenges when learning about and using traditional AAC technologies. The majority of adult individuals with severe disabilities in our study have prior experiences with using various AAC devices, yet a high rate of abandonment is noted. Under such circumstances and in order to support more effective design and increased use of AAC, it is important to look beyond the interaction with dedicated AAC devices, and gain a better understanding of AAC use, practices and care support. In a six-month study that comprised participating in speech therapy sessions and working together with families, support workers and adults with severe disabilities, we lay out the foundations for a design framework that needs to consider a) current AAC cultural status b) modelling of AAC use c) creation of AAC user-friendly environments and d) personalization of AAC dedicated devices and the potential for AAC tangible (mid-tech) alternatives. We conclude with implications for design.