Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) for adults with severe aphasia: where we stand and how we can go further.
OBJECTIVE
To review literature specific to the use of AAC with adults who have severe aphasia.


METHODS
The authors reviewed studies involving AAC interventions for adults with severe aphasia.


RESULTS
Published data support the use of aided and unaided AAC with adults with severe aphasia in controlled treatment contexts. Reported gains in communication typically have not generalized to everyday settings.


CONCLUSIONS
The application of AAC with persons with severe aphasia must address factors potentially limiting treatment success outside of training environments.
Jacobs
B
B
Departmenmt of Human Services, Western Carolina University, Cullowhee, NC 28729, USA. bjacbobs@email.wcu.edu
Drew
R
R
Ogletree
B T
BT
Pierce
K
K
D000328:Adult; D001037:Aphasia / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D003142:Communication; D003143:Communication Devices for People with Disabilities; D004867:Equipment Design; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D011379:Prognosis; D012307:Risk Factors; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D013067:Speech Perception; D013070:Speech Therapy / Q000379:methods; D016896:Treatment Outcome