AAC & ALT

About the Workshop

AAC service delivery across the lifespan represents a wide range of interventions and complex decision-making.  This workshop will emphasize a language-based model that applies the principles of evidence-based practice (EBP) for data-driven clinical decisions.

Adults with complex communication needs will go through several major transitions in a life time.  How these critical lifespan transitions are handled in terms of AAC interventions have an impact on quality of life.

Lecture, case study data, and interactive discussion will be used to familiarize participants with the principles of EBP for these populations. The research-base, tools, and resources that can help clinicians make AAC intervention decisions based on a transitional stage are highlighted. Applying the steps of EBP is exemplified through case study summaries of clients at various transitional stages across the lifespan.  The life experience of individuals who rely on AAC is greatly influenced by AAC intervention services.

Learning Objectives:

At the end of the course, the trainees should

• Identify the steps of evidence-based practice (EBP) and the companents of a language-based model to support AAC interventions.
• Identify the major lifespan transitions for adults with congenital disabilities.
• Discuss the range of AAC components in terms of quality of life technology.
• Discuss how to apply the principles of EBP to adults with Congenital disabilities who rely on AAC as they transition through various stages of adulthood.
• Discuss how to apply the principles of EBP to adults with Aphasia or Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) who rely on AAC as they transition through various stages of adulthood.
• Discuss how to apply the principles of EBP to adults with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) who rely on AAC as they transition through various stages of adulthood.
• Discuss performance and outcome differences that exist among various AAC interventions using research and case study data.

Who Should Attend