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Communication boards for dysarthria | Dysarthria & Speech Therapy
Communication boards for dysarthria | Dysarthria & Speech Therapy




Communication boards for dysarthria

Dysarthria is a speech disorder that can affect people of all ages. It is caused by damage or injury to the nervous system, which can result in difficulties with articulation, pronunciation, and phonation. People with dysarthria may find it challenging to communicate with others, which can lead to frustration and isolation. Fortunately, there are several communication tools and techniques available to help individuals with dysarthria, one of which is communication boards.

What are communication boards?

Communication boards, also known as communication aids or augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices, are tools designed to assist individuals with communication difficulties. These boards are usually made of durable materials such as plastic, cardboard, or laminated paper and contain a range of symbols, pictures, and words that the user can point to convey their message.

There are many different types of communication boards available, ranging from basic boards with only a few symbols to more complex boards with multiple categories and subcategories. Some boards are designed for specific purposes, such as medical communication, while others are more general and can be used in a variety of situations.

How do communication boards help individuals with dysarthria?

For individuals with dysarthria, communication boards can be an invaluable tool for expressing their thoughts and ideas. By pointing to symbols and pictures on the board, users can convey complex messages without having to rely on verbal communication. This can be particularly helpful for individuals with severe dysarthria who may have difficulty speaking clearly or articulating their words.

Communication boards can also be useful for individuals who experience fatigue or pain when speaking for extended periods. By using a communication board, they can conserve their energy and reduce the strain on their vocal cords.

Types of communication boards

There are many different types of communication boards available, each with its unique features and benefits. Some of the most common types of communication boards include:

Alphabet boards: These boards contain the letters of the alphabet and can be used to spell out words or sentences.

Picture boards: These boards contain pictures or symbols that represent words, phrases, or concepts.

Topic-specific boards: These boards are designed for specific situations or topics, such as medical communication or travel.

Dynamic display boards: These boards contain a range of symbols and pictures that can be customized to suit the user's needs and preferences.

High-tech AAC devices: These devices use computer technology and software to create dynamic displays, voice output, and other advanced features.

Choosing the right communication board

When choosing a communication board, it is important to consider the user's needs, abilities, and preferences. Factors to consider include:

Level of communication: Some users may only require basic boards with a few symbols, while others may need more complex boards with multiple categories and subcategories.

Motor skills: Users with limited motor skills may require larger symbols or boards with fewer options to make it easier to navigate.

Language proficiency: Users who are multilingual or have limited language proficiency may benefit from boards with pictures or symbols that are easy to understand.

Personal preferences: Some users may prefer certain colors, symbols, or layouts, which should be taken into account when selecting a board.

Conclusion

Communication boards are a valuable tool for individuals with dysarthria and other communication difficulties. They can help users to express themselves more effectively and reduce the frustration and isolation that can come with speech disorders. When selecting a communication board, it is important to consider the user's needs, abilities, and preferences to ensure that they get the most benefit from the device. With the right communication board, individuals with dysarthria can communicate more easily and confidently with those around them.

 




Tags: - gadgets, therapies, speech therapists, therapies, apraxia, dysarthria, dysphagia, stroke, speech impediments, speech therapy, Parkinson's disease