Communication aids in patients with motor neurone disease.

The study aimed at determining the main factors responsible for the speech and communication problems in motor neurone disease to try to assess the suitability of commercially available aids. Sixteen patients suffering from motor neurone disease with communication problems had their speech assessed by using the Frenchay dysarthria assessment. It was found essential to offer a choice of aids to the patient since suitability of a particular aid could not be evaluated without the patient practising with it.