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Impact of augmentative and alternative communication devices on families

A study was conducted in Pennsylvania to determine the impact of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices on families. Clinical experience and anecdotal reports suggest that families are important in achieving positive outcomes in AAC. Clearly, clinicians and educators need to understand how AAC devices affect not only the user but the entire family as well. The purpose of this study was to identify the impact on families and determine implications for intervention. A statewide survey was distributed to over 500 Pennsylvania families whose children had received AAC devices through the long-term equipment acquisition program of the Central Instructional Support Center, formerly known as the Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Center of Harrisburg, during the period of 1985 to 1996. Respondents reported the extent of the impact on users and family members from a parent's perspective. A total of 114 or 22% of the families responded to the survey. Families responded to 76 impact statements using a 5-point Likert scale. Items that received ratings of strongly agree and agree were combined and contrasted against those rated as disagree and strongly disagree. Those survey items for which over 50% of the parents responded either positively (strongly agree/agree) or negatively (disagree/strongly disagree) are highlighted. Implications for intervention and roles of professionals in working with families to promote positive AAC outcomes are discussed.