Speech-Language Pathologists’ Perceptions Regarding Augmentative and Alternative Communication Implementation and Assessment in the Adult Population

The goal of this research project is to bring awareness to a part of the population that is severely lacking in both representation and research in regard to the use of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), bringing attention to the scarcity of studies centered around AAC use in adults. This study hopes to increase the number of SLPs who are comfortable in assessing and implemeneting AAC systems with adults. The survey included questions pertaining to how long SLPs had been practicing, what populations they are most familiar with, their comfort levels regarding both AAC implementation and assessment, and memorable experiences they may have had regarding AAC. The survey was sent via email to 589 licensed SLPs practicing in settings with primarily adult populations in the state of Mississippi. A total of 72 surveys were submitted, and 61 complete responses were obtained. Preliminary results indicated that although many SLPs have implemented a multitude of systems in their career, they do not necessarily feel confident when implementing AAC systems; data also indicated that an overwhelming majority of SLPs find AAC to be helpful when implemented correctly. This project and its outcomes contribute to SLPs’ awareness of AAC implementation and assessment in adults, along with bringing attention to the insufficient number of studies centered around AAC use in adults. Keywords: speech-language pathology, AAC, augmentative and alternative communication, adults, S