You Need
It can sometimes be difficult knowing which aid is the most appropriate to meet a person’s needs. Here are a few basic guidelines to help you make that important decision:
1. Does the person want speech output?
If not, use low tech systems such as communication passports, books or boards. Software to help produce low tech resources includes Boardmaker, or Writing with Symbols 2000 and Communicate in Print 2.
2. If the person could speak, how many messages would they want to say?
This is often related to their understanding of language - ask your Speech and Language Therapist if you are not sure.
3. How do the messages need to be represented?
• Visual: using photos, pictures, symbols or words - all devices allow this.
• Tactile: using objects of reference, raised symbols or Braille - most of our communication aids can be adapted to have tactile overlays (except the Tech/Touch, MightyMo and MiniMo).
• Auditory: some people with a visual impairment benefit from auditory prompts. Try the Scan4, Tech/Scan 8 Plus, Tech/Scan 32 Plus or Tech/Touch.
• Spelling: the LinkCLASSIC, LinkPLUS and Tech/Touch can convert text to speech.
4. How will the person access the device?
• Direct touch: all devices have a direct access option. Think about the surface area needed for the person to touch it accurately and the pressure required.
• Mice and other pointing devices: the Tech/Touch can be used with mice or alternatives such as head pointers.
• Switch Access: many of our communicators can be controlled using an external switch.
• Switch Access with Scanning: Scan4, Tech/Scan 8 (+plus), Tech/Scan 32 (+plus) and Tech/Touch.
5. Are additional functions needed?
• Environmental control: try the Tech/Talk plus ECU or Tech/Speak plus ECU for wireless control of mains powered appliances or lights.
• PC access: the Tech/Touch is a PC based device that will run Windows software. It can be set up to access internet and email facilities.
6. Other considerations:
• Funding: you will want the most cost effective solution that meets the needs of the person - think about adaptability and potential growth of the use of the aid. Use of a low tech system and trial of a device before purchase can really help with the decision making process. Funding is usually gained from the statutory bodies: health, education or social services, charities or private fundraising.
• User preferences: the person may have preferences on the look, feel or even ‘street cred’ of a device!
• Support available: many of our devices are simple to operate and program, but all communication devices will need input from those working with the user to ensure appropriate messages are inputted and strategies for implementation are in place. More sophisticated devices, such as the Tech/Touch, may require some training in the use of the software chosen.
• Changing needs: some people’s needs may change quite a lot over time. If you feel they may progress quickly, choose a device that has scope to grow with the user. For example, the SuperTalker goes from 1 to 8 messages, the Tech 128 from 1 to 128 messages and the Tech/Touch is fully configurable from 1 message upwards. Other users may have deteriorating conditions and it might be useful to have more than one access option.
• Portability and/or Mountability: consideration on how the device is going to be transported is crucial. If it will be carried around, consider the weight and size and whether you need a case or strap. The Tech/Touch has mounting holes specifically designed for wheelchair mounting systems.