In 1994, the Benedetta D'Intino Center opened in Milan with support from the foundation bearing its name. It serves children and adolescents with psychological disorders, supports their families, and helps children with various disabilities or no spoken language develop communication skills and independence.
Beyond psychotherapy, foster care, and adoption services, the Center houses a Division of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)—Italy's first service offering evaluation, consultation, training, and supervision in the field, directed by Dr. Aurelia Rivarola.
AAC emerged in North America during the 1970s as a distinct field of study and practice. Today it forms a cornerstone of rehabilitation work in English-speaking countries, supported by extensive scientific literature. In Italy, however, its adoption has been slower and more recent for various reasons.
What Is Augmentative and Alternative Communication?
AAC refers to the full range of knowledge, techniques, strategies, and technologies used to help people communicate when they lack or have lost the ability to speak—whether temporarily or permanently. The word "augmentative" signals that AAC methods enhance rather than replace existing communication skills. "Alternative" refers to any form of communication other than spoken language.
The philosophy underlying AAC is straightforward: build on each person's abilities, whatever they may be, and provide tools that compensate for communication challenges. AAC intervention aims to boost self-esteem, increase motivation to communicate, expand social opportunities, and ease learning at school. When people can communicate effectively, their quality of life improves. They become more independent.
AAC Tools
Graphic symbol systems use pictures—simple or complex—that users select through any pointing or selection technique. VOCAs (vocal output communication aids) are devices with one or more buttons that play back prerecorded messages when pressed.
Communication software—programs that run on a computer—displays communication charts on screen and can produce voice output, allowing people to communicate from a distance.
As part of its AAC work, the Center offers free access to assistive devices and AAC documentation. It has also created a Residence program to house families of disabled individuals from other regions at no cost. Since 1996, the Center has operated Italy's first formal training school in AAC for rehabilitation and education professionals.
For more information, contact the Benedetta D'Intino Center, Via Sercognani 17, 20156 Milan, Center website.
- Valentina Gallo and Antonella Bulgheroni, (S. Giuseppe della Pace - Milan), 2002
