RPTF

Complex communication nededs: Changes in the present, hopes for the future

 

Isabel Amaral

 

ABSTRACT:

The concept of Augmentative and Alternative Communication has been developing since the beginnings of the 70’s, moving from a response to people who could not use speech as a form of communication to a more integrated approach, which stresses the need for natural approaches to support the development of functional communication . The concept of Profound Intellectual and Multiple Disabilities (PIMD) has been used to refer to a specific population showing combinations of profound intellectual challenges together with other disabilities. As a result of the combination of disabilities, children with PIMD are not able to spontaneously and consistently explore environments, get involved in daily life activities and attend to people in the environment. Speech Language Pathology as a resource for the population of PIMD is not consensual. An approach to communication with this population requires a change in paradigm regarding the role of speech language pathologists working with this population. In this article we discuss a few theoretical contributions to the understanding of the needs of the new population of people with PIMD, the challenges of developing appropriate services to meet their needs and the role of speech-language therapists as team members in these services.

 

KEYWORDS: Deficiência intelectual múltipla e profunda, Necessidades complexas de comunicação, Interacção pessoa-ambiente.