Messages Beyond Voice: Bridging Communication with AAC Technology
What is AAC Technology? How can this technology empower communication and transform care in healthcare ?
Michael Reinald
5 Jan 2024
2 minutes, 29 seconds
With modern technology, communication has never been easier. Applications and devices have almost erased geographical and even language-related barriers! It is important for us not to take such convenience for granted. Even in a highly modernised country like Singapore, a proportion of the population still faces prominent difficulties in daily communication - speech-impaired individuals, particularly seniors. Their obstacles are often twofold as they face speech difficulties coupled with technological unfamiliarity.
Introducing Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices have emerged as a powerful tool and source of hope. AAC devices can range from lower-tech options, such as picture boards, to high-tech devices, such as smartphones and tablets. Such devices enable patients to express their needs, thoughts, and feelings. Because AAC can bridge vast gaps in communication between patients and their practitioners, its importance should not be understated!
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices can significantly improve patients' quality of life and provide relief for caregivers. Breaking down communication barriers enables patients to be involved in their own care and treatment. This helps with coordination and personalisation of care and treatment plans, which in turn boosts patient satisfaction.
However, there are some obstacles to implementing AAC devices in healthcare settings. Lack of funding and training resources can limit accessibility. Overcoming this requires a concerted effort from healthcare providers, policymakers, and society.
Overcoming The Obstacles
It begins with raising awareness. Education campaigns can dispel misconceptions and promote inclusive technology. Increased funding or grants for research and development is also crucial. Innovating and refining existing AAC devices lowers barriers to entry and makes them more accessible.
Some of WerkDone's Smart Healthcare Solutions have AAC features incorporated. Smart Healthcare can and should streamline operational processes for facilities and raise the standard of patient care.
WerkDone's Companion App is a tablet-based application designed for daily use by seniors and nursing home residents. Using simple AAC-like pictorial buttons, patients can easily communicate their needs, such as needing to go to the toilet and feeling hungry or tired. These features help to facilitate patients' autonomy and independence in daily communication. Aside from communicating the needs, the Companion App facilitates social engagement and mental enrichment.
Appropriate training is also needed for the effective use of AAC devices. This equips professionals with the skills to assess patient needs, recommend suitable devices, and provide ongoing support. All efforts should seek to make AAC technology more accessible, regardless of socioeconomic and geographical factors.
Assistive technology like Augmentative and Alternative Communication can empower patients, promote autonomy, and enhance patient-provider communication. Collective commitment is needed to make the benefits of modern technology accessible and inclusive. Collaboration amongst healthcare providers, policymakers, researchers, and the wider community paves the way for a more compassionate healthcare system (and society!)
Our Commitment
At Werkdone, we believe that all challenges come with solutions. We are committed to building future-proof solutions for our clients. Our Smart Healthcare Solutions assist healthcare providers and strive to make healthcare technology more accessible. Visit our website to find out more, or drop us a message here!
