Personal communication systems belong to the individual, and are often customized
to meet their specific needs. These are used for everyday
communication. People communicate using very many different types of communication
systems, depending on their preference, their communication needs,
their needs in terms of physical access, their literacy level, as well
as access to communication services and funding for devices.
For example, some people use pen and paper. Some people
use a boogie board. Some people spell out words on a letter board.
Some people select pictures on a picture board.
Some people type or they use switches, or eye gaze systems, to select
items on a smartphone, a tablet, or a specialized speech
output device. Now it's important to recognize that technology
is not always the answer, and it's not always the best solution. Some people choose
and prefer to use a communication board, rather than a device.
In Canada, people often get these communication systems
through speech language pathology services, or through specialized augmentative
communication clinics, where qualified, trained professionals can assess
and advise on their best options. It's beyond the scope
of this resource to list all the different communication systems that are
available. However, again, we provide you with links that you can use
in the handouts, where you can get more information if you
require that.