What is a symbol reader?

Question

Besides the smart a** answer of "A person who reads symbols", what is a symbol reader? www.symbolworld.org

I'm very confused as to why this even exists.

Answer 1

A symbol reader is a machine designed for people with severe communication problems, specifically the inability to use verbal communication. This machine has pictures of things in their everyday lives and common actions and with the proper training allows them to communicate using pictures.

For example, the machine might have a picture of the person him/herself and a picture of food. By pointing to both of those pictures, the person can communicate that they are hungry.

I hope this helps.