Children and adults with severe speech or language problems may need to find other ways to communicate besides talking. There are many types of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) they can use. Speech-language pathologists, or SLPs, can help with getting to know them and exploring their options.
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) means “other ways to communicate.”
AAC is an umbrella term. It is a general term that encompasses a wide variety of methods for helping people communicate and includes all forms of communication that are used to express thoughts, needs, wants and ideas
AAC includes all forms of communication such as gestures, signs, and voice output systems. It can also be high-tech or low-tech depending on the needs and accessibility that one person might have.
No-tech and low-tech options include things like
gestures and facial expressions,
writing,
drawing,
spelling words by pointing to letters, and
pointing to photos, pictures, or written words.
High-tech options include things like
- using an app on an iPad or tablet to communicate and
- using a computer with a “voice,” sometimes called a speech-generating device.
Some examples of AAC include picture exchange communication systems (PECS), sign language, and voice output devices.
How can a Speech-Language pathologist help with AAC?
An SLP can help find the right AAC system for the person in need. They also help the people the person talks with, to learn how to use AAC in order to communicate with each other. Not every tool works for every person, so it is of great importance to find the right one for each person. SLPs work with other professionals like occupational therapists and physical therapists in order to explore the different physical skills and limitations that affect how one accesses the AAC system.
Common Misconceptions on AAC.
A lot of people think that using AAC will stop someone from talking or will slow down language development. On the contrary, research shows that AAC can actually help with these concerns! People who use AAC can also learn how to read and write without any delay caused by it.
Best Amazon finds on Low and High tech AAC systems: https://amzn.to/48DIFDp
source: https://aacinstitute.org/