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The pages were created to facilitate participation in daily activities and to promote social links.Īphasia, a disorder caused by damage to the parts of the brain where language is stored, may affect the ability to comprehend language, to express oneself, to read, or to spell and write. The framework of the file was derived from the Life Participation Approach to Aphasia from the Aphasia Institute in Toronto, Canada. All the participants work at CAYA (Communication Assistance for Youth and Adults) and the GF Strong Rehabilitation Centre in Vancouver, BC, Canada.
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It was developed by Lois Turner (SLP), Anne MacCallum (SLP) and Sarah Gauthier (SLP Assistant) in consultation with a group of speech-language pathologists who work exclusively with people with aphasia and brain injuries. “Communication Journey: Aphasia” is a vocabulary file containing features and vocabulary designed to support people with aphasia. Various page sets are included with TouchChat: English Standard Page Sets Page sets are linked pages, each of which is divided into a number of buttons. The buttons are programmed to have specific actions, such as speaking a message, navigating to a different page, changing the volume or clearing the display. TouchChat gives an individual the ability to navigate through page sets and speak messages. Included in the app is: Integrated head tracking (*with applicable iPad/iPhone models), configurable switch scanning, and a range of touch access features. TouchChat can be used for individuals with a wide variety of access needs. Various English, Spanish and French synthesized voices are available, allowing the user to choose a voice that fits their own personality. Words, phrases and messages are spoken with a built-in voice synthesizer or by playing a recorded message. TouchChat fits into the category of assistive technology known as Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) and includes features that were previously only available in much more expensive dedicated devices. TouchChat provides English, Spanish and French options in one app, and is a universal app supporting iPhone®, iPod®, and iPad®. Please note that the WordPower suite of vocabularies is not included in this version of TouchChat. TouchChat is designed for individuals with Autism, Down Syndrome, ALS, apraxia, stroke, or other conditions that affect a person’s ability to use natural speech. TouchChat HD for iPad® / iPod® / iPhone® ($149.99 USD + tax) is a full-featured communication solution for individuals who have difficulty using their natural voice.
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