How/Where to get AAC device?

[selena]

I was attending a summit for autistic people, where a few of the nonspeaking panelists were using what I assume is an AAC device.

Does anyone know how/where to get this (if that's what I'm looking for)? My google searches lead me to a device that seems to come with pre-recorded messages, but what I'd like to do is to be able to type out my responses on the spot.

 

[Mia]

The Lingraphica is a speech-generating device that has been specifically designed for people with aphasia (impairment in the ability to use or comprehend words) and apraxia (difficulty executing the movement patterns necessary to produce speech even though there is no paralysis or weakness of speech muscles).

The device is the size of a laptop. It has a touch screen with graphics relating to everyday life. There are frequently used phrases and words stored in each of the graphic folders so that when the user needs to communicate, they can use those if they wish.

“There’s also an application that patients can download onto their iPods allowing them to carry certain phrases with them without the bulk of the bigger device,”

Insurance coverage is often available for AAC devices.
How Much Will a Device Cost Me? | Lingraphica
https://medicalxpress.com/news/2011-07-device-voice-patients.html

An app that can be downloaded:

New app helps those who can't speak to be heard

Touch Voice, a medical speaking app:
Touch Voice | The Medical Speaking App That Gives You A Voice