Vulnerability, health information right and the contributions of augmentative and alternative communication for people with aphasia

Abstract

Due to impaired communication, people with aphasia are often in a vulnerable situation and face barriers in accessing health information. This article discusses the contributions ofaugmentative and alternative communication for people with aphasia in optimizing communication, improving language recovery, and mainly in providing education and increasing access to healthinformation. This can be translated into a positive impact on respect for autonomy right, well-being, quality of life, and health outcomes (further participation in the decision-making process, involvement,independence, and control of the rehabilitation process). Health professionals, including nurses, must have communication skills to communicate effectively with this population and also be prepared to useaugmentative and alternative communication strategies.