Abstract:

The ability to effectuate the communication process is one of the significant attributes of every person. This also applies to individuals with severely disrupted communication ability, who are considerably limited in this respect. The present text is designed as a single-case study and reflects the stages of special education procedures (descriptive – diagnostic – intervention) in an adult man with severely disrupted communication ability as a result of multiple health disability (cerebral palsy in the form of spastic quadriparesis; intellectual disability and secondary epilepsy). The presence of this serious health disability typically requires support in communication using suitable Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) means. The first part of the research study summarizes relevant information about the individual; this information is used to identify the current level of the person’s communication abilities, skills, and limitations. The next part of the text describes the diagnostic process focusing on the person’s selected personality aspects, and an analysis of applicability of the selected AAC means. The final part reflects and discusses the selection of specific AAC means including a plan of further development of communication skills as part of a special education intervention. Despite the absence of procedures and methodological framework, the authors believe that the present text will contribute to inspire and transfer know-how in the context of similar cases and typologies of individuals with severely disrupted communication ability. The aim is to support these individuals by addressing this communication deficiency in the most suitable way and by developing their existing communication potential.

Keywords:

Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC), adult, severely disrupted communication ability, single-case study.