Assistive Devices Resource Service (ADRS)

A face-to-face communication system is for individuals who struggle to communicate verbally. They may be non-verbal or they may be verbal, but their speech is very difficult for communication partners to understand, and so they need an augmentative alternative communication (AAC) system to help them communicate with others in face-to-face situations.

Referral Criteria for Face-to-Face:

• Little to no speech or speech that is very difficult to understand
• Communicate intentionally
• Use a minimum of 20 different symbols (e.g. picture symbols, consistent gestures, signs and/or words/word approximations) to communicate in more than one environment

Some individuals may need a writing aid to support their written communication needs. An AAC system for writing is for those who have difficulty using a pen or pencil to write due to a physical disability. Their handwriting might be illegible, or they may suffer from pain/fatigue with traditional handwriting and can’t keep up with the speed needed for every day writing tasks.

To be referred for writing aids, the client must have a documented physical disability. If their primary diagnosis is a learning disability (i.e. dyslexia or autism), wherein there is no definite physical component to the diagnosis, they are not eligible for ADP funding for writing aids.

Referral Criteria for Writing Aids:

• Between the ages of 6 - 18 years
• Documented physical disability (not a primary learning disability) that makes it difficult to use pen and paper or regular keyboard and mouse to meet their writing needs
• Able to form complete thoughts with letters and/or symbols
  
  -OR-
   
• Under 6 years
• Documented physical disability (not a primary learning disability) that makes it difficult to use pen and paper or a regular keyboard and mouse 

Adapted access may involve using a switch, a joystick or eye scanning in order to activate desired keys/buttons/locations on a screen. Someone may require an adapted switch if they are not able to directly target keys on a keyboard with a finger (for example). There are adapted access options for face-to-face AAC systems, writing aid systems and even adapted access for toys (although not fundable through the Assistive Devices Program).

To be referred for adapted access, the client must have a documented physical disability. If their primary diagnosis is a learning disability (i.e. dyslexia or autism), wherein there is no definite physical component to the diagnosis, they are not eligible for ADP funding for adapted access.

Referral Criteria for Adapted Access:

• Children or youth with a documented diagnosis of a physical disability (not a primary learning disability)
• Require complex switch access and set-up at home to allow access to the computer and/or technical toys (i.e. switch adapted toys)