title: Augmentative and alternative communication for people with progressive neuromuscular disease.
abstract: Individuals with progressive neuromuscular disease often experience complex communication needs and consequently find that interaction using their natural speech may not sufficiently meet their daily needs. Increasingly, assistive technology advances provide accommodations for and/or access to communication. Assistive technology related to communication is referred to as augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). The nature of communication challenges in progressive neuromuscular diseases can be as varied as the AAC options currently available. AAC systems continue to be designed and implemented to provide targeted assistance based on an individual's changing needs.
authors.affiliation: Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Professions, Communication Sciences and Disorders, 36 First Avenue, Charlestown Navy Yard, Boston, MA 02129-4557, USA. ljball9134@gmail.com
authors.forename: Laura J
authors.initials: LJ
authors.lastname: Ball
authors.forename: Susan
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Fager
authors.forename: Melanie
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Fried-Oken
mesh_terms: D062207:Brain-Computer Interfaces; D003143:Communication Devices for People with Disabilities; D005133:Eye Movements; D005868:Gestures; D019416:Head Movements; D006801:Humans; D009468:Neuromuscular Diseases / Q000150:complications* / Q000503:physiopathology*; D013064:Speech Disorders / Q000209:etiology*; D049250:Speech Recognition Software