Receiving a communication aid is revolutionary to those who require them and although it may be hard to consider the impact this has on everyday life, devices can help people to achieve their biggest dreams. Take a look at our acrostic for some of the many ways life changes for people with communication aids.

Clear cut communication: Upon receiving a communication aid, people are able to express themselves, in many cases for the first time in their lives.

Opportunity: Having communication aids means people are able to take opportunities they previously couldn’t have, such as taking part in lessons, meeting new people and even going to shops alone.

Make memories: having a communication aid helps people to make lasting memories, whether it’s making a friend or speaking in a meeting for the first time.

Master skills: Communication aids are integral in mastering skills, allowing users to access the internet, create documents or even give presentations.

Unique: Everybody has a unique personality and for those with speech difficulties, they are finally able to unveil theirs with the use of a communication aid.

New experiences: communication aids permit users to try new things that they may have been put off trying previously, such as ordering food at a restaurant or trying stand-up comedy as in the case of Lee Ridley!

Informed: Many communication aids have internet connectivity and for users who suffer from lack of mobility, they allow them to be more informed about the world through news access.

Control: communication aids give users back control over their own lives, no longer having to rely on somebody else interpreting their emotions.

Alternative futures: Depression rates amongst people with disabilities is high, with many assigning themselves to unfulfilling futures, but with a communication device, people begin to see better futures.

Take lessons: Those with communication aids can take part in lessons, answering questions and offering their opinions.

Inclusive: Following from the above, communication aids promote inclusivity as users can join in with group discussions, express themselves in public and be more included in society.

Organised: communication aids help people to move on with their lives, organising their own timeline, such as scheduling appointments or even creating their own celebratory events.

Not alone: Many non-verbal people feel very isolated due to their lack of voice, but with a communication aid they soon realise they are not alone and can reach out to other non-verbal people.

Achieve their dreams: Before communication aids, many users feel that they will never be able to reach their goals, where as with a device they are able to pursue their careers and take steps towards their dreams.

Increased independence: Just popping to the shop or going to the bank can be hard for non-verbal people but with a communication aid they can complete these small tasks with a much greater deal of independence.

Developmental milestones: First words are one of the most sought-after milestones by parents and children alike and regardless of age, communication aid users get to reach this milestone.

Set lively minds free: In some cases, non-verbal people have years’ worth of pent up thoughts and opinions and a communication aid allows lively minds to be set free!