Are speech-generating devices viable AAC options for adults with intellectual disabilities?

Many adults with intellectual disabilities have severe communication impairments and are therefore potential candidates for the use of speech-generating technologies. However, there may be reluctance to prescribe speech-generating devices for adults with intellectual disabilities in the absence of evidence demonstrating that such persons are capable of learning and interested in using this technology. In this chapter, the authors provide an overview of intellectual disability and the use of speech-generating technologies for adults with intellectual disability. This overview is followed by a systematic review of intervention studies that have sought to teach the use of speech-generating technologies to adults with intellectual disability. An overview and review of this type may help to inform and advance evidencebased practice in the provision of communication intervention for adults with intellectual disability. DOI: 10.4018/978-1-61520-725-1.ch010

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