Book excerpt: Communication is a vital part of life. Trying to communicate, either verbally or non-verbally, with others who do not communicate in the same way can create major communication barriers. This can be especially true when it comes to health care interactions. Working to enhance the communication within the health care community, Visually Speaking, A Visual Guide for Non-Verbal Patients is a tool that patients, families, and healthcare professionals can use to help alleviate frustrations and challenges that can occur during day-to-day communications between patient and caretaker. This guide can assist in communicating: how you are feeling, emotionally and physically; what activities you would like to do; what activities of daily living you might need assistance with; what you may be worrying about; expressing what is on your mind; what you might be wondering, what you may be missing, and what type of food or beverage you would like. This guide is specifically designed for health care professionals in hospitals, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities who want to provide the best care for a non-verbal patient.