The dynamic role of SLP in Assistive Technology

Published: 04 Aug 2023 Tagged: AACAmplifyCommunicationAssistiveTechnologyAugmentativeAndAlternativeCommunicationCommunicationRevolutionDeviceCustomizationLanguageSupportSpeakableSpeechPathologySyntheticSpeechVoiceBanking

Assistive technology has revolutionized the way individuals with communication disorders interact with the world. In this blog post, we will explore the vital role of speech and language pathology in harnessing the power of assistive technology to enhance communication and improve quality of life.

• Customized communication solutions: Speech and language pathologists play a crucial role in assessing individuals' unique communication needs and recommending and implementing appropriate assistive technology devices or software tailored to their specific requirements.
• Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC): AAC systems, ranging from low-tech options like picture boards to high-tech devices with synthesized speech, empower individuals with communication challenges to express themselves effectively. Speech therapists provide training and support in AAC implementation and ensure optimal device use.
• Language and literacy support: Speech and language pathologists collaborate with individuals using assistive technology to develop language and literacy skills, such as vocabulary expansion, sentence construction, and reading comprehension, using specialized software and applications.
• Voice banking and synthetic speech: For individuals who have lost their natural voice due to medical conditions, speech therapists facilitate voice banking—a process of recording and preserving their unique voice—which can be later used in assistive technology devices to generate personalized synthetic speech.
• Ongoing assessment and device customization: Speech and language pathologists provide ongoing assessment and device customization, ensuring that assistive technology solutions meet the changing needs of individuals and continue to optimize their communication abilities.

Assistive technology opens new avenues of communication for individuals with speech and language disorders, and speech and language pathologists are at the forefront of this transformative journey. If you're interested in learning more about the role of speech and language pathology in assistive technology, reach out to a professional who can guide you on the path to amplified communication.