Slide 5 of 10
Notes:
When talking about effective, the measure is simply that the device provides for the linguistic needs of the client. If the device is being chosen to be the client's "voice," then what level of communication can the client achieve? Can the device be modified by the operator or does it need a third party? Can the device accommodate the physical needs of the client e.g. if the client uses a switch to access technology, does the communication aid also allow for this? For an aid to be "effective" it has to have a range of features that match the specific needs of the potential user.
A device may be described as "flexible" if it can be changed across time to accommodate the developing needs of the client. For example, if a client with ALS has a device that they are currently accessing by pressing keys, will the same device also support access by a switch at a later stage in the progression of the disease? Of if an individual has a device operated by a single switch, can it be changed to allow for joystick access as the client's motor skills improve? A device that isn't flexible may need to be replaced, which will therefore involve new learning by the client and new funding.
Affordability seems obvious, but selecting a communication aid should not be based solely on this factor. A $20 talking picture frame from Radio Shack (R) is inexpensive, and it is possible to program in a message such as "Hi, my name is Bob," but is this really going to be effective and flexible over time? A $10,000 device sounds hideously expensive, but if it provides great flexibility and effectiveness such that the client can become truely independent with communicating, then the investment is much more realistic.
An important question to ask manufacturers of their technology is "what can be done if the technology fails?" If the communication aid is the sole means by which an individual interacts with the world, then it is critical that he or she can get help if there are problems. Most manufacturers therefore provide a range of support services such as phone support, training, Internet support, loaner devices and extended warranties. Checking into the availability of these should be done as a standard part of any assessment of need.
