Wingspan Technology Center
Expanding the limits of possibility through Assistive Technology.
- What is Augmentative/Alternative Communication (AAC)?
- Who can benefit from AAC?
- What does Wingspan Assistive Technology Center offer?
- Services and Rates
- Contact Us
What is Augmentative/Alternative Communication (AAC)?
Augmentative/Alternative Communication (AAC) can make it possible for people who are unable to speak to communicate fluently and effectively. Augmentative/Alternative Communication encompasses a wide range of assistive technology, from simple alphabet or picture cards to complex electronic devices with speech output.
Important Terms and Definitions
- Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC):
- The application of assistive technology through visual language systems to create and/or enhance existing communication modalities in individuals with disabilities.
- Unaided Communication Systems:
- sign language, natural gestures, facial expressions
- Aided Communication Systems:
- photographs, picture communication symbols, voice output communication devices
Who can benefit from AAC?
Augmentative/Alternative Communication is not just for people who cannot speak at all. AAC can be used to enhance the fluency of anyone who has difficulty speaking, and those who speak, but are not easily understood. It can be used as a temporary support to assist verbal development, or as a permanent means of communication.
Augmentative/Alternative Communication can be beneficial for both children and adults with communication difficulties. It can be useful in various settings including--at home, at school, at work, at a doctor's appointment, at a grocery store, at church and anywhere else in the community where a person spends their time.
What does Wingspan Assistive Technology Center offer?
- Our highly skilled team is comprised of Speech/Language Pathologists specializing in Augmentative/Alternative Communication and experienced Occupational Therapists who provide a multi- disciplinary approach to assessing each individual's needs, abilities, and potential.
- Recommendations include both technology and techniques that are appropriate to the individual's current abilities and needs and that can grow with them.
- Follow-up consultation services, and training for both family and professionals to ensure that every individual is taught and encouraged to use AAC in their lives, including at home, school, and in the community.
- Because Wingspan is located nearby, we can maintain continual contact with the individual and their family. We are also available for emergency consultations when necessary.
Services and Rates
- Full AAC Assessment: includes Speech/Language Pathologist evaluation and Occupational Therapist evaluation when necessary.
$600 - Follow-up Consultation Services: includes device programming sessions, troubleshooting, and other services as needed. Can be negotiated with initial assessment or upon request at a later date.
$75/hour - Training for those working closely with the child receiving an AAC device: arrangements can be made for team training upon request.
$75/hour
Note: Please call (607) 724-2111(voice/TTY) about different funding options such as private insurance, VESID, your school district, or other community service organizations.*
* Although Medicaid will not pay for the assessment, it may help pay for the AAC device/system.
Contact
Wingspan is a program of the
Southern Tier Independence Center
24 Prospect Avenue
Binghamton, NY 13901
(607) 724-2111 Voice/TTY/VP
(607) 772-3607 Fax
Email: wingspan at stic-cil dot org