For which individual would a recommendation for an augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) intervention be least appropriate?

For which individual would a recommendation for an augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) intervention be least appropriate?

• A. A preschool child with a language-learning disorder and highly unintelligible speech
• B. A teenager with a repaired cleft palate who continues to experience hypernasality
• C. A young adult with severe cerebral palsy precluding functional oral communication
• D. A 55-year-old man who has had a laryngectomy

Answer: (B)

The recommendation for augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) intervention would be least appropriate for a teenager with a repaired cleft palate who continues to experience hypernasality because this individual likely possesses the capacity for functional oral communication, albeit with some speech characteristics that may need to be addressed. Hypernasality, while it can affect speech clarity, does not inherently indicate an inability to communicate functionally; rather, it suggests that the individual may benefit from speech therapy focused on improving articulation and resonance rather than transitioning to an alternative communication method. In contrast, the other scenarios present individuals who have either severe restrictions in their ability to communicate orally or have conditions where AAC would significantly enhance their ability to interact and express themselves. The preschool child with a language-learning disorder may struggle with language production, making AAC a supportive option to aid in communication. The young adult with severe cerebral palsy faces challenges that inhibit functional speech, making AAC a primary consideration for communication. The individual who has had a laryngectomy has lost the ability to produce voice and would therefore also benefit from AAC strategies to allow for effective communication.

The recommendation for augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) intervention would be least appropriate for a teenager with a repaired cleft palate who continues to experience hypernasality because this individual likely possesses the capacity for functional oral communication, albeit with some speech characteristics that may need to be addressed. Hypernasality, while it can affect speech clarity, does not inherently indicate an inability to communicate functionally; rather, it suggests that the individual may benefit from speech therapy focused on improving articulation and resonance rather than transitioning to an alternative communication method.

In contrast, the other scenarios present individuals who have either severe restrictions in their ability to communicate orally or have conditions where AAC would significantly enhance their ability to interact and express themselves. The preschool child with a language-learning disorder may struggle with language production, making AAC a supportive option to aid in communication. The young adult with severe cerebral palsy faces challenges that inhibit functional speech, making AAC a primary consideration for communication. The individual who has had a laryngectomy has lost the ability to produce voice and would therefore also benefit from AAC strategies to allow for effective communication.