ALS Ice Bucket Challenge Progress
Most people with ALS will experience difficulty with speech and movement as their illness progresses. Some people living with ALS will ultimately lose the ability to speak, which can be both frustrating and emotionally upsetting. Using alternative and augmented communication (AAC) technology can greatly improve the quality of life of a person living with ALS. AAC includes systems such as symbol or picture boards, communication boards, laser pointers, voice amplifiers, and electronic devices with synthesized speech (known as Speech Generating devices - SGDs).
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) is usually not fully covered by insurance, or it may take a very long time for a person to receive approval for AAC items. Families often cannot provide adequate care to their loved one without the ability to communicate, as they wait for their insurance plan to determine eligibility. To support these individuals and families, the Golden West Chapter provides an AAC Equipment Loan program, free-of-charge, to meet both low tech and high tech needs. This program supports those families who do not have coverage through health insurance, have high-out-pocket deductibles, and/or do not otherwise have the means to pay for it themselves.
The goal of the AAC Equipment Loan Program is to implement timely strategies and proactive steps that will enable people with ALS to maintain optimal communication. To qualify, a person must have ALS or a related diagnosis, reside within the Golden West Chapter area, and be unable to obtain these items through other means.
Some examples of AAC technology offered through this program include (as available):
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To learn more about changes in speech with ALS, please download our resource guide.
In California, we partner with Forbes Norris ALS Clinic and Treatment Center to manage our inventory of safe, functional, appropriate equipment to be utilized throughout our service area.
In Hawaii, our Program Coordinator, Mac Negre, manages requests for our local families. To learn more about this critical program, please reach out to your care manager, or contact 818-865-8067.
