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Cerebral Palsy FAQs

Common questions about using High-Tech AAC with individuals with cerebral palsy.

Will a speech device impede my child's natural ability to speak?
Extensive research has proven that AAC can actually benefit children by enhancing their communication and supporting the development of language and literacy skills. In many cases, AAC may, in fact, facilitate the production of speech. (Millar, Light & Schlosser, 2006). With AAC, individuals are engaged in the process of learning as they receive visual and auditory feedback and reinforcement from the device. Voice output has been found to have a positive impact on literacy skills, question response, comment sharing, object labeling and requesting (Beukelman & Mirenda, 2005)
How do I know if AAC is the right choice?

If an individual's speech and language skills are not developing normally, or if they have a condition making normal speech development unlikely, then they may be a candidate for AAC.

Please note that introducing AAC DOES NOT mean that you are giving up on speech. This is a common misperception. Remember, the goal of AAC is to enhance communication, not to replace or inhibit the existing communication skills of the child. For more information on typical speech and language development, please visit http://www.asha.org/public/speech/development/.

How do I choose the most appropriate device?
A Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) should perform an evaluation to determine if an AAC system is appropriate. The evaluation will assess and compare different devices to determine which one will allow the individual to achieve the highest level of communication success. Most school districts and private speech and language clinics either employ SLPs or can refer you to a qualified SLP in your area. If you need assistance in finding an SLP who is familiar with AAC in your area, please contact your local DynaVox consultant.
How are devices funded?
In most states, devices are paid for by one of several funding sources. These sources include Medicare, Medicaid and private insurance. Some nonprofit organizations also work to provide communication devices for those who do not qualify for or do not have access to other funding sources. Since funding varies in each state, DynaVox can help you with the funding process by assigning a funding specialist who is knowledgeable about your state's specific funding requirements. You funding specialist will assist you in preparing and submitting the required paperwork to acquire an AAC device.
What if an individual cannot use his or her hands to access a device?
Many access methods exist, including eye control, head tracking, and multiple types of switches which can be attached to wheelchair headrests or other locations.
Can a person with severe Cerebral Palsy use an EyeMax?
A person with severe cerebral palsy that is able to maintain a relatively stable head position, either on their own or supported by a head rest, and who do not have significant eye control problems, can do quite well with an EyeMax System. However, "Over 40-75% of children with cerebral palsy have some form of a visual problem or impairment." (Black, P.D., 1980). Direct field loss (not being able to see straight ahead, and only having peripheral vision) and severe oculomotor issues are the two visual impairments that are the most difficult to overcome for successful use of an eye gaze system.

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Implementation Toolkit

The Implementation Toolkit is a collection of video and print-based resources created to help you facilitate successful interaction using AAC.

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