Course Overview:
This course provides healthcare professionals, including speech-language pathologists (SLPs), occupational therapists (OTs), physical therapists (PTs), nurses, and physicians, with comprehensive training in communication strategies for nonverbal patients. Participants will learn to evaluate communication needs, implement appropriate augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) techniques, and effectively use low-tech and high-tech AAC tools in medical settings. The course emphasizes practical methods for supporting patients and caregivers, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration, addressing emotional and psychological challenges, and integrating AAC solutions into daily patient care. Through real-world examples, case studies, and hands-on exercises, participants will gain the necessary skills to enhance communication, patient autonomy, and quality of care for individuals who cannot rely on verbal speech.