Computerised augmentative communication devices for people with dysphasia: design and evaluation.

Recent developments in low-cost computer technology suggest that substantial improvements are possible in communication aids for dysphasic patients. This study describes a recently developed communication aid and reports a case study of one application. The software (EasySpeaker for Windows) provides an easily customized and flexible icon-based communication aid, which does not require the ability to read text, but which automatically records in detail the use being made of the device. The aid was given to a dysphasic patient in his own home for 4 weeks. Regular activity sessions were held throughout the period and data obtained from these sessions to identify learning and improvement on the device. Although improvements were found in speed and accuracy of operation, the use made of the aid for real communication by this patient was limited. Several possible reasons are identified for this and, in particular, the importance of illustrating specifically how such a system can be of benefit is emphasised.