CCN: What are complex communication needs?

Summary

This presentation by Developmental Disability WA explores complex communication needs in individuals with disabilities. Some people may struggle to speak, understand others, or process language, often requiring alternative communication methods like sign language, communication devices, or visual aids. The presentation debunks common myths about these methods, emphasizing that AAC tools don't hinder speech development and can support better communication. It encourages families and caregivers to seek assistance from speech therapists and use inclusive strategies to enhance communication for those with complex needs.

Takeaways

• 🗣️ Complex communication needs refer to challenges in speech, language understanding, or expression faced by some individuals with disabilities.
• 🔍 Individuals with complex communication needs may have difficulty expressing themselves or understanding others, and they may require additional support.
• 🤔 It's crucial to recognize complex communication needs to improve quality of life and prevent challenging behaviors that can arise from unmet communication needs.
• 🛠️ Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) tools and strategies can assist individuals with complex communication needs to understand and express themselves.
• 👤 Personal communication systems can be developed using facial expressions, voice, and body language, which are natural forms of communication.
• 📱 Technology such as iPad apps, communication devices with touchscreens, and gaze-based systems can be utilized to support communication.
• 👶 Starting with AAC early can be beneficial, and it does not hinder natural speech development; in fact, it can enhance it.
• 📚 Visual supports like symbols, photos, and communication books are valuable for individuals with speech, even if they can already speak.
• 🚫 Debunking myths is important, including the idea that complex disabilities equate to severe intellectual disabilities or that visual supports are unnecessary for those with some speech.
• 💡 Seeking professional help from speech therapists and engaging with support groups can be instrumental in implementing effective communication strategies.

Q & A

What is a developmental disability as described in the script?

A developmental disability is a condition that affects a person's physical, learning, language, or behavioral abilities and is due to an impairment in physical or mental development. It can manifest in various ways, such as difficulties in communication, understanding, and expressing oneself.

Why is it important to recognize complex communication needs in individuals with disabilities?

Recognizing complex communication needs is crucial for improving the quality of life of individuals with disabilities and preventing challenging behaviors that may arise from unmet communication needs.

What are some ways to help people with complex communication needs to understand language or express themselves?

Ways to help include using Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) tools, learning to respond to their natural communication methods, employing sign language, utilizing communication books, apps, devices with touchscreens, and switches for those unable to touch screens.

How can we support someone who communicates differently from the norm?

Support can be provided by learning to respond to their communication methods, using sign language, and employing AAC tools such as communication books, apps, and devices that facilitate expression and understanding.

What is Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) and how does it help?

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) refers to a range of tools and strategies used to help people with complex communication needs to express themselves and understand others. It includes sign language, communication books, apps, devices with touchscreens, and more.

What are some myths about people with complex communication needs that the script addresses?

The script addresses myths such as the assumption that physical disability equates to severe intellectual disability, that using AAC will hinder speech development, that visual supports are unnecessary if someone has some speech, and that certain skills are needed to benefit from visual communication tools.

How does the script challenge the myth that using visual supports will slow down speech development?

The script clarifies that research shows using communication supports, including visual aids, does not slow down or stop speech development; in fact, it can facilitate faster development.

What does the script suggest about the necessity of visual supports for those with some speech?

The script suggests that even people with some speech might need visual supports to help them process information more effectively and to aid in expressing themselves more fully.

How does the script dispel the idea that people need to demonstrate certain skills to benefit from visual communication tools?

The script explains that the candidacy model, which suggests people need to demonstrate certain skills to benefit from visual communication tools, is outdated and not supported by current research.

What advice does the script offer for those looking to support individuals with complex communication needs?

The script advises seeking help from a speech therapist experienced in complex communication needs, contacting organizations like Augmentative and Alternative Communication Australia (AGOFsky), and discussing communication goals with an NDIS planner.