What is CAYA?

Communication Assistance for Youth and Adults (CAYA) is a province-wide service program that supports adults aged 19 years and older who require an augmentative/alternative communication (AAC) system due to a severe communication disability, i.e. speech that is not functional for daily communication. The goal of CAYA is to ensure that eligible individuals have access to the communication tools and professional support to enable them to create an adult life to the best of their abilities

What does CAYA offer?

CAYA provides a time dependent service. Assessment and intervention will occur for approximately four months, after which time the Client and his/her Team will be expected to assume responsibility for continued implementation and use of the communication system. The overall service is comprised of the following modules:

  • Assessment – CAYA provides assessment services through our skilled Speech-Language Pathologists to determine the best augmentative or alternative communication system for eligible clients and a thoughtful implementation plan incorporating the resources and strengths of their supporters and families.

Who is eligible?

  • Adults aged 19 years and older who require an AAC system due to a severe communication disability, i.e. speech that is not functional for daily communication* (*This does not include individuals whose primary communication disability is a hearing loss. CAYA does not provide hearing aids or assisted listening devices. Individuals with hearing disabilities are encouraged to contact the Western Institute of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing in Vancouver www.widhh.com )

What is the CAYA process?

  • Once eligibility is established, the CAYA team determines if further assessment information is needed before other CAYA services are put in place.

How does one apply?

You can submit the online Request for Service application form here. Alternatively, you can download the Request for Service PDF and fax or mail the completed form to our head office (604) 266-2463.

If you have any further questions:

Email CAYA at contact@cayabc.org