AAC use and service provision: A survey of New Zealand speech-language therapists

TLDR

The study surveyed New Zealand speech‑language therapists to assess AAC services for individuals with complex communication needs. Two survey forms were mailed to therapists working with students or adults, collecting data on AAC provision, professional needs, and demographic details of users. Low‑tech options and sign language were most used; children aged 5–10 received the most intervention, with cerebral palsy, intellectual disability, and autism being the most common etiologies, and 86 % of respondents sought further AAC training.

Abstract

AbstractAugmentative and alternative communication (AAC) services for people with complex communication needs in New Zealand were investigated by surveying speech-language therapists. Two separate survey forms were developed and mailed to speech-language therapists who worked with either students or adults. In both survey forms, information was requested about (a) the provision of AAC intervention, (b) the professional needs of speech-language therapists providing AAC services, and (c) demographic information about students with complex communication needs. Low-tech communication options and sign language were the most commonly reported AAC strategies used by adults and students with complex communication needs. Students aged 5 – 10 years received the most AAC intervention. Cerebral palsy, intellectual disabilities and autism spectrum disorders were the most commonly reported etiologies of students who used AAC. A total of 86% of the respondents indicated a desire for further AAC information or training.Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC)SurveyDemographicService delivery