These suggestions are getting downvoted, but my girlfriend needed surgery wherein she wouldn't be able to speak for about a month. I know sign language, and tutored her for about a month leading up to the surgery. It was empowering, and she was able to teach friends, family and coworkers a few basic signs which made a lot of interactions go smoother. This low-tech solution doesn't need batteries or internet connectivity, and can provide a much smoother flow of conversation than typing things out.