Augmentative and Alternative Communication

Loss of speech does not mean loss of communication.

Progressive neurological diseases such as ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease), as well as stroke, traumatic brain injury, and other medical conditions, can affect an individual’s ability to speak clearly or at all. At Swallowing and Neurological Rehabilitation (SNR), we specialize in helping individuals maintain meaningful communication regardless of physical limitations.

Through comprehensive evaluation and access to both high- and low-tech communication systems, we ensure patients remain connected to their loved ones, medical providers, and community.

When Should You See a Speech-Language Pathologist?

The sooner, the better.

After a stroke or brain injury, early speech therapy intervention is associated with improved communication outcomes and greater long-term recovery.

For progressive conditions such as ALS and other neuromuscular diseases, early evaluation is equally critical. Many individuals are referred when speech is still relatively intact, and this is often the ideal time to begin planning. Early intervention allows for:

Education about future communication needs
Voice banking while speech remains strong
Device exploration and training before speech declines
Reduced stress during disease progression

Proactive planning ensures smoother transitions and greater independence if verbal speech becomes limited.

Voice Banking & Early Planning

For individuals with progressive diagnoses, voice banking allows patients to record their own voice for future use on a speech-generating device. This preserves personal identity and enhances emotional connection with loved ones.

We guide patients through the voice recording process and help integrate recorded voice files into compatible communication systems when appropriate.

Comprehensive AAC Evaluation

The process of obtaining a speech-generating device (SGD) begins with a detailed AAC evaluation conducted by a speech-language pathologist. This evaluation assesses:

Current communication abilities
Anticipated progression of disease (when applicable)
Cognitive and motor skills
Vision and access methods
Environmental and lifestyle needs

Based on this assessment, we help determine the most appropriate system, whether low-tech communication boards, mid-tech devices, or high-tech speech-generating devices with alternative access methods such as eye gaze technology.

Insurance & Funding Navigation

Once a device is selected, the SLP prepares a detailed report of medical necessity for submission to insurance. Coverage requirements vary by payer, and our team assists patients and families through each step of the approval process.

When traditional funding sources are unavailable, we help identify alternative solutions, including:

Nonprofit assistance programs
Device loaner banks
Community-based equipment closets
Regional and diagnosis-specific funding resources

We maintain strong relationships with local and national organizations to ensure patients have access to the equipment they need.

Specialized Neuromuscular Expertise

Our clinicians have extensive experience providing AAC services to individuals with complex neurological and neuromuscular diagnoses.

Through our clinic’s partnership with the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA), we serve as part of the Tulsa multidisciplinary MDA clinic team, supporting individuals with ALS and other progressive neuromuscular conditions. This collaborative model allows us to anticipate communication needs early and coordinate care alongside physicians and interdisciplinary providers.

At SNR, AAC is not simply about selecting a device. It is about preserving identity, autonomy, and connection. Our goal is to ensure every individual (regardless of diagnosis) has a reliable, effective way to communicate.