Developmental Delay: Dealing with the Communication Challenges

If, due to developmental delay, your child, loved one, student or client struggles with verbal speech, then you know that this can impact their ability to learn, their behavior and ultimately, their quality of life. Some individuals may have the potential to develop spoken language, while others may not. Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) may provide a solution in either case.


Intro to AAC

What is AAC?
AAC is a term used to describe a range of communication tools including high-tech speech-generating devices, which are often funded by Medicare, Medicaid or private insurance.

What if the individual is nonverbal?
If the child or adult is nonverbal, they can benefit from AAC. An AAC or speech generating device like, the DynaVox V+ or Vmax+ or the highly portable DynaVox Xpress, is a communication resource that allows a person to select symbols, pictures, letters, words or phrases to generate oral communication. Some people actually develop the ability to use natural speech through using a device.

What if the individual has limited speech or is verbal?
These individuals can benefit from a speech-generating device to help them use speech consistently and engage in more meaningful communication.

Who can help determine if a speech-generating device will provide a solution?
A speech language pathologist (SLP) knowledgeable in AAC is the professional to consult. They will be able to perform an evaluation to determine if a speech-generating device is appropriate and which device will best meet the specific needs of the communicator.

STEP

1

See Others Who Have Succeeded
AAC has helped those with developmental delays to engage in the word around them and reach their full potential.


STEP

2

Identify Alternative Product Solutions
DynaVox offers a range of AAC devices enabling individuals with developmental delay to be effective communicators, interacting with friends and family and enriching their lives.


STEP

3

Find Your Local Sales Consultant
Your DynaVox Sales Consultant is close-by and works with you and your speech language pathologist. If you don’t have an SLP, your DynaVox consultant can recommend one knowledgeable in AAC. He or she will lend their device expertise to your SLP to help with product selection and evaluations.


STEP

4

Identify Funding
You may qualify for speech device funding from Medicaid or your private insurance company. Our funding specialists help step you through the requirements and will process and submit the paperwork.



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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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