Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and Loss of Speech
Our next series of articles will discuss how amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) affects a person’s family and friends. Family and friends of an individual diagnosed with ALS often experience a learning curve when it comes to interacting, assisting and working with their loved one. ALS assistive technology, including environmental control units for disabled individuals and a speech generating device are designed to improve the independence for individuals affected by ALS .
ALS often affects one’s speech as the disease progresses. The automoME is an integrated custom environmental control unit/speech generating device with full augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) capabilities. This type of ALS communication device is designed for individuals with varying levels or progression of disease. Several input methods, such as touch, switch scanning/sip and puff, eye gaze and head tracking can all be used to control the autonoME.
Although there is a learning curve with any accessibility assistive technology, the automoME is very user friendly. When we install the autonoME, our technicians take time to provide a tutorial for both the individual using the device and their caregivers. It’s superior AAC capabilities and easy to use interface gives individuals with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis the ability to speak and communicate once again. This is not only life changing for them, but also has a positive impact on their family and friends as well. There is nothing more touching than hearing someone who is having challenges with speech to actually be able to say “I love you” to their loved ones again!
The autonoME’s superior AAC features coupled with its environmental control capabilities makes it the preferred ALS assistive technology package on the market today. If you would like to learn about how the autonoME can help you gain more independence, give us a call today!
