Communication Partners' Perceptions of Their Roles and Responsibilities in the Design, Planning and Use of Augmentative and Alternative Communication With Individuals With Severe or Profound Intellectual Disability: A Qualitative Descriptive Study

ABSTRACT Background This study explores communication partners' perceptions of their roles and responsibilities in the design, planning and use of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) with individuals with severe/profound intellectual disability. Methods A qualitative descriptive approach was used. Purposive sampling, data collection and qualitative content analysis were undertaken simultaneously. Data were collected from nine participants, four parents and five professionals over 4 months through audio or video‐recorded, semi‐structured, open‐ended interviews. Findings An overarching theme ‘Maximising Communication through AAC’ emerged, capturing participants' unanimous agreement that their shared goal was to optimise individuals' communication through AAC. This was influenced by three themes: ‘Developing a Communicative Environment’, ‘The Act of Communicating; Attempting to Realise the Individuals' Ability’ and ‘Living with Uncertainty’. Conclusions These findings contribute to enhancing understanding of AAC use with individuals with severe/profound intellectual disability and their communication partners.