What is a communication picture?
The purpose of the communication picture is to support and facilitate communication when there are challenges in producing or understanding speech or words. People with severe speech or language problems may need AAC to help them communicate. AAC means Augmentative and Alternative Communication. AAC incorporates the individual’s full communication abilities and may include any existing speech or vocalizations, gestures, manual signs, and aided communication. To some people signs are too hard to learn and pictures are the easiest and most simple way to communicate.
Communication pictures are pictures, which present something as simple as possible. There are many styles to draw pictures and the most important thing is to find just the right style for each person who uses pictures. However, no individual should go without communication, and all individuals should have access to AAC systems that promote effective communication.
There has been little research on communication pictures, and the guidelines for communication pictures have often considered whether it is easier for a person to perceive drawings or photographs. Drawn image
is often more simplistic and easier to perceive than a photograph, where, for example, lights and shadows can interfere with interpretation. A communication picture that paraphrases reality should not always be boring and as simplified as possible. A person who makes communication pictures should therefore also explore the different possibilities between a truthful and an abstract image.
Sexuality is an abstract subject, and its concepts can be difficult for all of us to comprehend through speech alone. Images support learning and understanding. However, genuine photos which are related to sexuality and sex can also be too cumbersome in terms of subject sensitivity, so drawn pictures make things easier. However, it is still important that things are presented truthfully and honestly.
WHO USES THE COMMUNICATION PICTURES?
By recent estimates, well over 2 million people who present with significant expressive language impairment use AAC. AAC users encounter difficulty communicating via speech due to congenital and/or acquired disabilities occurring across the lifespan. These conditions include but are not limited to autism, cerebral palsy, dual sensory impairments, genetic syndromes, intellectual disability, multiple disabilities, hearing impairment, disease, stroke, and head injury.
Communication pictures are also used by people, who are in interaction with people who can not speak. Parents, nurses, social and health care professionals, rehabilitation professionals (physio- and occupational therapists) etc. Often, the use and selection of images requires the help and support of a professional or close person so that the person can use them themselves.
If you need pictures for personal use, you can ask us for advice and help on using the pictures.
