communication aid-update

[acorneater]

Since my last posting regarding my wife's speech deterioration,the following has happened.

I had a conversation with her daughter which resulted in the purchase of a reconditioned Apple I pad (second generation) and an Apple app called "text to speech".It was loaded with her most common phrases which are selected by touch and given back as speech.This has proved to be a great help to the staff in her care home although she has to be encouraged to use it sometimes.More phrases will be added as the need arises.

She has been uncomfortable for a long time now, but I am hoping for a specialised wheel chair and a neck support collar both of which have been promised for this week.It's been over a month now since her CHC assessment in which time her condition has got worse,still awaiting a decision.If PSP sufferers don't deserve CHC ,I don't know who does!

On a sad note,just lately she often says she does not want to be like this and wants to die.It breaks my heart.

Hope others may benefit from "text to speech". Acorneater.

[aliciamq]

I wrote down the name of the app ~ Thank you🙂

[Willow_rob]

You should get CHC funding. I am sure you have read up on it, particularly posts from Kevin. Unfortunately there is a vast difference in approach by different CCGs. Make sure your's follow the national guidelines to the letter including ensuring the correct attendees at any meetings arranged. Stamp your feet, get angry, no more Mister Nice Guy. Your CCG obviously are trying to save money but it is their patient who is suffering.

[Railfan]

I've been a proponent of AAC communication for only a few months now. When I began having slowed and slurred speech I started looking at ways to be understood better. I found the same type of program for my Android Tablet but I also have seen pre-printed or home made sheets, laminated and put into a binder so they can be flipped through, to be another form.

As I slowly change and set up mine, my intention is to augment my tablet with a binder of my most common words and phrases.

One other thing I note is that a few have incorporated a Ouija Board in their communication as it has a few pictures and the letters and numbers . I'm on the lookout for one now at rummage sales and the like.

[anniesfirst in reply to Railfan]

As a retired special education teacher I am aware that there are lots of resources out there for inexpensive boards and pictures for boards or binders so that you can make something individualized. You can find many by searching teacher resources sites.