REFERENCES Brady, N. C., Bruce, S., Goldman, A., Erickson, K., Mineo, B., Ogle- tree, B. T., Paul, D., Romski, M., Sevcik, R., Siegel, E., Schoonover, J., Snell, M., Sylvester, L., & Wilkinson, K. (2016). Communication services and supports for individuals with severe disabilities: Guidance for assessment and intervention. American Journal on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, 121 (2), 121–138. Donaldson, A., endever*, c.., & McCoy, J. (2021). "'Everyone De- serves AAC;: Preliminary Study of the Experiences of Speaking Autistic Adults Who Use Augmentative and Alternative Commu- nication" Perspectives of the ASHA Special Interest Groups. Vol. 6. 315-326. https://doi.org/10.1044/2021_PERSP-20-00220 Koerner, S., Glaser, S., & Kropkowski, K. (2023). Perspectives of Part-Time Augmentative and Alternative Communication Use in Adults and Implications for Pediatric Service Delivery. Per- spectives of the ASHA Special Interest Groups. Vol. 8, 747-760. https://doi.org/10.1044/2023_PERSP-22-00200 Zisk, A.H. & Dalton, E. (2019). Augmentative and alternative com- munication for speaking autistic adults: Overview and recom- mendations. Autism in Adulthood (1) 93-100. https://doi.org/10.1089/aut.2018.0007
In moving toward a more inclusive future, it is essential to challenge ableist assumptions and prioritize the communica- tion needs of all individuals, regardless of how they communi- cate. By embracing a more flexible, responsive approach to AAC, we can empower part-time users to communicate more effec- tively, build stronger social connections, and participate fully in their communities. This requires a commitment to ongoing research, advocacy, and education, as well as a willingness to listen to the voices of part-time AAC users themselves. Only by working together can we create a world where everyone has the opportunity to express themselves fully and be heard. CALL TO ACTION: SUPPORTING PART-TIME AAC USERS What can you do to support part-time AAC users in your com- munity? Here are a few steps you can take: 1. Educate Yourself and Others: Learn more about AAC and the needs of part-time users. Share this knowledge with others in your community, including educators, healthcare providers, and policymakers. 2. Advocate for Change: Support policies and initiatives that make AAC more accessible and affordable. This might include lobbying for insurance coverage, funding for AAC devices and services, and the inclusion of AAC in disability rights legislation. 3. Support Research: Encourage and support research on part-time AAC use, particularly studies that explore the unique needs and experiences of this population. This re- search is essential for developing evidence-based practices that can improve outcomes for part-time users. 4. Listen to AAC Users: The most important voices in the conversation about AAC are those of the users themselves. Listen to their experiences, challenges, and successes, and use this information to guide your advocacy and support efforts. By taking these steps, you can help ensure that part-time AAC users have the tools and support they need to communicate ef- fectively, build meaningful relationships, and participate fully in their communities.
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