Synopsis: On today’s episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, host Brian Keene continues his discussion with Lydia Mackay and Stacey Dover, Phenix area speech-language pathologists, about the process of obtaining Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices in Arizona. This episode, part two of the three-part series, focuses on AAC devices.

Guests:

Lydia Mackay and Stacey Dover are speech-language pathologists based in the Phenix area. They specialize in working with individuals who use AAC in various settings, such as schools and homes. They have experience providing evaluations and training for augmentative communication devices and have worked extensively with non-speaking individuals and those with special needs. They are passionate about supporting communication development and empowering individuals to express themselves effectively.

Main Topics Discussed:

1. How to initiate the process of obtaining an AAC device for a child in Arizona.
2. The importance of working with a contracted AAC agency for specialized services.
3. The role of a multidisciplinary team in the evaluation process, including speech therapists and occupational/physical therapists.
4. Conducting a thorough evaluation to find the right AAC device that suits the child's needs and abilities.
5. The significance of considering the family's input and the child's physical abilities during the evaluation.
6. The possibility of using loaner devices during the evaluation phase.

Recap:

• In Arizona, families should initiate the process of obtaining an AAC device for their child to support their communication needs, as early intervention is crucial.
• To get an AAC device, families can work with their therapists or directly contact an AAC provider agency for assistance.
• The evaluation process involves a multidisciplinary team, including speech therapists and occupational/physical therapists, to find the best match for the child's communication requirements.
• The evaluation considers various factors, including the child's physical abilities, communication needs, and family input.
• Loaner devices may be available to use during the evaluation period.
• Part three of the series will focus on implementing the AAC device in daily life and discussing the pros and cons of different devices and features.

For AAC resources, FAQ, and flowcharts:

https://www.pureheartstherapy.com/resources/speechandcommunication

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