Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) and Life Care Planning

This is the second of a two part series on augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) and life care planning for individuals with significant speech disability. The purpose of Part II is to provide a case study which applies the principles of evidencebased practice (Hill, 2003) to the AAC assessment process. The article traces the steps leading to a decision about a high technology speech output AAC solution, and provides a case study that can serve as a model for life care planners in addressing similar issues. Part II also includes a list of AAC resources to support life care planning involving AAC which requires performance and outcomes measurement to lead to the most effective communication. Life care planning for AAC should provide a framework of services and supports that measure outcomes in terms of quality of life for the clients we serve. The articles ends with a list of ten “AAC Rules of Commitment” on choosing and using augmentative communication systems.