The importance of alternative augmentative communication and its impact on the quality of life of ALS patients.
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION
The aim of this research is verifying how the use of Alternative Augmentative Communication (AAC) aids allow patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) to interact with environment and interlocutors, improving their quality of life.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Eleven patients with ALS were examined. The AAC Device Trial Checklist & Rubric test was administered at t0 and after six months to all patients. The test evaluates the patients’ ability to use the available CAA system, with different both communication environments and partners.
RESULTS
Accordingly to scientific evidences, this study revealed the patients benefited from AAC aids. The assessments carried out show better results (100% of cases) in the use of the AAC system in two environments and with at least 2 communication partners. 82% of cases show improvements in the use of AAC for requesting objects and actions. 72.7% of cases show improvements in the use of AAC for communication purposes related to the expression of emotions and / or to attract the attention of the communication partner.
DISCUSSION
The research underlines through the results how important the use of AAC systems is in people with expressive language disabilities and how fundamental the role of the speech therapist in the AAC project is. The speech therapist, in fact, extends his/her professional action to the evaluation of neurolinguistic functions, thus being able to greatly contribute to the knowledge of the individual characteristics of the person's disability
CONCLUSIONS
A correct multidisciplinary management includes an assessment of the subject's communication skills and the choice of the most appropriate AAC aid in order to make the person's speech is intelligible. This improves the interaction and involvement of the person with different communication partners and external environment, as well as the person's quality of life.
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