title: Young adults with complex communication needs: research and development in AAC for a "diverse" population.
abstract: A successful transition to adult society requires attention to four major goals: (a) have a safe and supportive place to live; (b) participate in meaningful activities; (c) maintain access to needed services; and (d) develop friendships and intimate relationships. For young adults with complex communication needs (CCN), access to augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) plays a critical role in the achievement of these valued outcomes. This article discusses what is known about the use of AAC to support communication by young adults with CCN, and identifies areas for future research and development in AAC technology.
authors.affiliation: Department of Educational and School Psychology and Special Education, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA. dbm2@psu.edu
authors.forename: David
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: McNaughton
authors.forename: Diane
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Bryen
authors.forename: Sarah
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Blackstone
authors.forename: Michael
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Williams
authors.forename: Pamela
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Kennedy
mesh_terms: D035843:Biomedical Research; D003143:Communication Devices for People with Disabilities; D003147:Communication Disorders / Q000150:complications / Q000523:psychology* / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D008019:Life Style; D020380:Needs Assessment; D058992:Social Participation; D055815:Young Adult