Mentor/s
Avinash Mishra, Ph.D., CCC-SLP
Participation Type
Poster
Abstract
This literature review examines the impact of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices on the quality of life of individuals with various communication disorders. AAC encompasses a range of technologies and methods that facilitate communication without the necessity of verbal speech, improving self-expression and social interaction for users. This investigation highlights the spectrum of AAC devices, ranging from low-tech options like printed icons to sophisticated high-tech offerings such as tablet applications and eye-tracking technology. Through a comprehensive literature review utilizing specific search terms related to AAC and quality of life, the research identifies a significant positive correlation between AAC usage and improvements in mental well-being and overall quality of life across diverse populations. Users reported enhanced happiness, reduced anxiety and depression levels, and greater participation in social activities following the implementation of AAC. The findings underscore the importance of personalized AAC device selection based on individual capabilities and preferences to maximize impact. These results advocate for increased accessibility and customization of AAC technologies to support the quality of life for those with communication impairments.
College and Major available
Communication Disorders
Academic Level
Undergraduate student
Location
Digital Commons & West Campus West Building University Commons
Start Day/Time
4-25-2025 12:00 PM
End Day/Time
4-25-2025 2:00 PM
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial 4.0 License
Prize Categories
Most Scholarly Impact or Potential, Best Visuals, Best Writing
Augmentative and Alternative Communication and Quality of Life Across a Variety of Communication Disorders and Impairments
Digital Commons & West Campus West Building University Commons
This literature review examines the impact of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices on the quality of life of individuals with various communication disorders. AAC encompasses a range of technologies and methods that facilitate communication without the necessity of verbal speech, improving self-expression and social interaction for users. This investigation highlights the spectrum of AAC devices, ranging from low-tech options like printed icons to sophisticated high-tech offerings such as tablet applications and eye-tracking technology. Through a comprehensive literature review utilizing specific search terms related to AAC and quality of life, the research identifies a significant positive correlation between AAC usage and improvements in mental well-being and overall quality of life across diverse populations. Users reported enhanced happiness, reduced anxiety and depression levels, and greater participation in social activities following the implementation of AAC. The findings underscore the importance of personalized AAC device selection based on individual capabilities and preferences to maximize impact. These results advocate for increased accessibility and customization of AAC technologies to support the quality of life for those with communication impairments.
Students' Information
Olivia Plaia, Communication Disorders Major, Psychology and Honors Minor, Class of 2025