As a young non-verbal boy with cerebral palsy and an intellectual disability, Noah* did not have the opportunity to access Speech Pathology or other Allied Health therapy to support his development. He was reliant on the people around him to interpret his facial expressions, vocalisations and body language to address his needs.
Now as a middle-aged man living in Supported Independent Living, Noah’s NDIS plan allows for regular visits from a Carpentaria Speech Pathologist and Occupational Therapist to build his communication systems and enhance his interaction with his flatmates and the wider community.
Through regular and scheduled visits, Noah’s therapists have facilitated the use of a switch for Noah to communicate, allowing greater choice and autonomy during his day. Noah can also use a switch to control items such as an iPad, fan, lights and a blender, providing him with an improved sense of wellbeing. Noah’s Speech Pathologist is supporting him to continue to explore other forms of Augmentative and Alternative Communication tools to communicate with those around him.
*Name changed