2.2 Describe types of support that an individual may need in order to use communication technology and aids

This guide will help you answer 2.2 Describe types of support that an individual may need in order to use communication technology and aids.

Communication technology and aids can transform the lives of individuals with communication needs, but these tools require various kinds of support for effective use. Each person may face unique challenges when using these devices, and the type of support required will vary based on their abilities, circumstances, and the specific communication aid they are using. Providing the right support ensures that individuals can use communication technology effectively, improving their quality of life and promoting independence.

The guide covers the different types of support that might be needed.

Practical Support

Practical support focuses on physically enabling individuals to set up, use, or maintain communication aids and devices. Some examples include:

1. Device Setup

Many technologies require initial configuration before they can be used. Practical support may be needed to:

• Assemble devices, such as fixing a communication board in place or connecting cables for electronic aids.
• Install or configure software on tablets, smartphones, or PCs.
• Adapt devices to suit the individual, such as adjusting sensitivity settings on an eye-gaze tracker.

Professionals like assistive technology specialists or carers trained in setup procedures can offer this type of support.

2. Daily Use

An individual may need ongoing support to use their device regularly. This might involve:

• Turning devices on or off, particularly if the individual has physical limitations.
• Replacing batteries, recharging devices, or troubleshooting basic malfunctions.
• Positioning aids, such as angling a communication board within reach or ensuring a screen is at eye level for users of eye-gaze systems.

Carers or family members often provide this type of routine assistance.

3. Maintenance and Repairs

Communication aids, especially high-tech devices, may sometimes need repairs or updates. Support may involve:

• Cleaning or maintaining devices to keep them functional.
• Requesting repair services for broken or unresponsive equipment.
• Downloading and installing software updates to improve functionality.

Specialist services, manufacturers, or assistive technology teams often handle maintenance and repairs.

Emotional Support

Learning to use communication aids can be overwhelming, especially for individuals who are new to them or feel anxious about their abilities. Emotional support plays a crucial role in ensuring the individual feels confident and motivated.

1. Reassurance and Encouragement

The process of adapting to a new communication aid may take time and practice. Individuals may need:

• Encouragement to persist and keep practising, even if they initially struggle.
• Positive reinforcement to build confidence in their ability to use the technology.
• A safe, non-judgmental environment where they feel comfortable asking for help.

Supportive family members, friends, and carers can play this role, as well as professionals like speech and language therapists.

2. Addressing Frustration

For individuals who face difficulties using their devices, frustration may arise. Providing emotional support includes:

• Listening to their concerns and showing understanding.
• Suggesting small, manageable steps to overcome initial challenges.
• Adjusting goals to ensure they are realistic and achievable.

Creating step-by-step progress plans can reduce feelings of being overwhelmed.

Training and Skill Development

For someone to fully benefit from a communication aid, they may need training to develop the skills required to use it. This training often focuses on ensuring the device complements the individual’s existing abilities.

1. Understanding How the Device Works

Individuals and their supporters need to learn how to use the device correctly. Training may involve:

• Demonstrating how to use specific features (e.g., navigating a touch screen, accessing different menus).
• Teaching keyboard shortcuts or other time-saving techniques, where applicable.
• Explaining how to customise devices, such as programming commonly used phrases into a speech-generating device.

Speech and language therapists, assistive technology experts, and specialist trainers typically deliver this kind of training.

2. Building Communication Skills

Using technology to communicate requires developing certain skills, such as:

• Typing or pointing to icons on a touchscreen.
• Constructing sentences using communication boards or AAC software.
• Combining gestures, signs, and device use to enhance meaning.

Speech and language therapists often work with individuals to refine these communication techniques.

3. Training for Carers and Family Members

Those supporting the individual must also understand how devices work. This enables them to:

• Provide consistent, effective assistance when required.
• Troubleshoot minor issues to prevent unnecessary delays or disruptions.
• Encourage and recognise efforts, even if progress is slow.

Care teams or families might attend workshops or one-on-one training with professionals to gain these skills.

Customisation and Adaptations

For many individuals, standard communication devices may not fully meet their needs. Customisation can make these technologies more tailored to the user’s abilities and preferences. Support in this area may include:

1. Device Modifications

Aids may need physical or digital adjustments, such as:

• Enlarging on-screen buttons for users with impaired motor skills.
• Changing icons or text into their native language, sign symbols, or braille.
• Mounting devices onto wheelchairs or beds for easier accessibility.

2. Alternative Input Methods

If standard input methods, such as a keyboard, are unsuitable, alternative methods may be required. Support could involve:

• Introducing eye trackers for those unable to use their hands.
• Configuring voice-activated commands for users with some speech capacity.
• Setting up switches or joystick controls for individuals with limited mobility.

Occupational therapists often assist with these adaptations.

3. Accessibility Features

Some individuals may benefit from the accessibility options built into many devices. Examples include:

• Screen readers for visually impaired users.
• High contrast modes for those with low vision.
• Simplified user interfaces for people with cognitive difficulties.

The teaching of these features may require support from assistive technology trainers.

Social Support

Communication aids can help individuals build or maintain social relationships. Support to integrate these devices into social activities is important. This might include:

1. Encouraging Social Use

Individuals may need help learning how to incorporate their device into day-to-day interactions. Support might involve:

• Teaching them to use greetings, questions, or small talk through the device.
• Helping them practise in real-life settings, such as during family gatherings or community meetings.
• Encouraging peer engagement, particularly for children in schools.

2. Promoting Acceptance Among Others

Support should extend beyond the individual to their social circles, such as their family, friends, or classmates. Promoting understanding of the device among others reduces stigma and increases acceptance. For example:

• Family members and friends can learn how the device works to interact more effectively.
• Schools and workplaces can be encouraged to create inclusive environments through awareness sessions or demonstrations.

Advocacy organisations and care teams often help with awareness efforts.

Technical Support

The increasingly electronic nature of communication aids means that users often require technical assistance. Common types of technical support include:

• Troubleshooting when devices stop working or freeze.
• Updating software or firmware to ensure the device runs efficiently.
• Configuring device integrations, such as pairing with smartphones or home systems.

Technical help is often provided by device manufacturers or assistive technology professionals.

Access to Funding and Resources

Financial support can determine whether an individual is able to access high-quality communication aids. Support in this area might include:

• Applying for grants or funding from charities, the NHS, or local authorities.
• Investigating options for leasing or borrowing equipment.
• Guiding families through the process of applying for personal budgets.

Specialist services or social workers often help individuals explore these options.

Final Thoughts

Every individual has different needs when using communication technology and aids. By providing a combination of practical, emotional, technical, and social support, caregivers and professionals can empower individuals to use these tools effectively. This support ensures that communication remains an achievable and enriching part of their daily lives.