Ongwanada has partnered with Queen’s University for a research study with the goal of exploring experiences of adults with developmental disabilities, their caregivers, and Ongwanada staff to identify factors which can facilitate communication and decision making of adults, and their opportunities to do things according with their aspirations and wishes. We are also looking at how we may best go about this, and explore the use of augmentative and alternative communication devices (i.e., iPads and Tap It interactive touch screen boards) as communication aids.

One major part of this is the research team speaking virtually with the parent(s) and/or caregiver(s) of our supported individuals, as they are who know best about how varied, and sometimes complex, our supported individuals’ communication styles and preferences can be and can provide invaluable insight and knowledge on this topic.

This is voluntary, and would consist of a virtual zoom session approximately an hour and a half to two hours long. We are hoping that some of you may be able to help out and have your knowledge and experience shared for this incredible and groundbreaking study.

We are hopeful for a group of about 5-8 family members/caregivers to get your voices and experiences heard and shared. If you are interested, please contact Ongwanada Person Centred Planner Bev Prairie at bprairie@ongwanada.com or 613-328-3370.

At Ongwanada, we are extremely hopeful that this study will assist us and other organizations across the province, country and even internationally, and help us all understand more about adults with developmental disabilities and promote more meaningful communication with information gathered from this study. Thank you in advance for your help with this vitally important study that will positively impact many individuals’ lives.