Augmentative & Alternative Communication (AAC)
Communication systems and strategies for individuals who cannot rely on speech alone.
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) encompasses all forms of communication other than oral speech that are used to express thoughts, needs, wants, and ideas. AAC includes unaided systems such as gestures, sign language, and facial expressions, as well as aided systems ranging from picture boards and communication books to sophisticated speech-generating devices and tablet-based applications.
AAC is appropriate for individuals of all ages who have limited or no functional speech due to conditions such as autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, apraxia of speech, traumatic brain injury, ALS, or other developmental or acquired disabilities. Research consistently demonstrates that AAC does not inhibit speech development; in fact, it often supports and enhances verbal communication.
A speech-language pathologist specializing in AAC conducts a comprehensive evaluation to determine the most appropriate system for each individual. Intervention focuses on teaching the individual to use their AAC system effectively, training communication partners, and ensuring the system grows with the user's evolving needs and abilities.
Signs & Symptoms
- •Limited or absent verbal speech that does not meet daily communication needs
- •Severe difficulty being understood by familiar and unfamiliar listeners
- •Reliance on gestures, pointing, or leading others by the hand to communicate
- •Frustration, behavioral challenges, or withdrawal due to inability to express needs
- •Speech that is insufficient for academic, social, or vocational participation
Treatment Approaches
- •Comprehensive AAC evaluation and device selection
- •Training in use of low-tech (picture boards) and high-tech (speech-generating devices) systems
- •Communication partner training for family, caregivers, and educators
- •Language intervention using AAC to build vocabulary and sentence structure
- •Ongoing system customization and advancement as skills develop
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