AAC Strategies for Individuals With Visual Impairment

Academic, therapeutic, and educational applications all fall under augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). In the simplest terms, a symbol is anything that symbolizes or depicts something else (Beukelman & Mirenda, 2013). As a result, this “something else” is referred to as the antecedent (Beukelman & Mirenda, 2013). The term core language pertains to words and concepts often utilized by many people (Beukelman & Mirenda, 2013). Generally, scientific work or intervention assessments that examine the terminology consumption habits of a sample of persons highlight relevant vocabulary elements (Beukelman & Mirenda, 2013). People with visual impairments communicate their emotional or physical emotions through unaided symbols such as yawning, smiling, sobbing, groaning, shouting, and coughing. For instance, whether unaided or assisted, aural scanning may benefit individuals with significant visual impairments (Beukelman & Mirenda, 2013). On the other hand, those with vision often demonstrate their emotions through unaided symbols like gestures where squinted eyes and pursed lips suggest rage. Likewise, if a person is offended by something said to them, they will frequently employ a body movement technique called eye shielding.

The term fringe vocabulary relates to words and phrases that are specific to a particular person. For example, the identities of specific persons, places and occupations, and their favored expressions could be included (Beukelman & Mirenda, 2013). These phrases serve two purposes: to personalize the AAC vocabulary and allow for the communication of concepts and thoughts that do not occur in the core vocabulary categories (Ganz et al., 2017). Some of the principles that can aid in establishing symbols for fringe vocabulary for individuals with visual impairments are as discussed below. Direct selection principles allow people who use AAC to immediately select the item they want from a list of options (Ganz et al., 2017). Most visually impaired have encountered a variety of methods for making a choice. Depressing a button on a printer or computer keypad enables these individuals to select or engage any element on the keyboard.

Moreover, visually impaired people choose to use non-electronic AAC solutions that allow for physical interaction rather than a sense of pressure or sadness. When using a communication board, for instance, items can be recognized by physically touching them. Pressure is not necessary because there is no mechanical engagement. Activation of innovative flagship devices and portable computers like the iPad needs a specific amount of time or gestural movement to be applied.

Reference

Beukelman, D. R., & Mirenda, P. (2020). Augmentative & alternative communication: Supporting children and adults with complex communication needs. Paul H. Brookes Pub.

Ganz, J. B., Morin, K. L., Foster, M. J., Vannest, K. J., Genç Tosun, D., Gregori, E. V., & Gerow, S. L. (2017). High-technology augmentative and alternative communication for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and complex communication needs: A meta-analysis. Augmentative and Alternative Communication, 33(4), 224-238.