Association of Speech Therapists in Private Practice
Speech Therapy
 

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)

This term covers ways of communicating that add to, or replace, speech and handwriting with signs or symbols; voice output communication aids (VOCAs) and computer-based technology may also be used.

People (children or adults) may have difficulty expressing themselves so that they are able to be understood by others. This could be due to lack of speech, difficulties with speech intelligibility, motor speech difficulties (controlling the physical movements necessary for speaking), or difficulties with voice production and breath control.

An AAC user employs a system to augment expressive communication. This could be:

  • use of signing
  • use of symbols
  • use of objects of reference (a real object associated with the intended message)
  • communication books containing frequently used words, pictures or symbols
  • low-tech communication aids (such as a small chart with symbols for essential needs, or a tool with a very limited message content)
  • high-tech communication aids (e.g. VOCAs)
  • computer solutions (e.g. Tech/Touch)

Speech and language therapists are often involved with multi-professional teams working with AAC. Therapy should begin as soon as possible to give individuals needing AAC a mode of expressing themselves. This reduces frustration and helps others understand. Therapy can continue for as long as is necessary. For some, AAC may be a continuing lifelong need and a therapist will be involved in updating systems to match new needs and make use of improved tools.

The following may form part of therapy input for people with AAC needs:

  • Assessment of the individual's ability to express themselves in a way others can understand.
  • Assessment alongside others (e.g. parents/carers, occupational therapist, physiotherapist, specialist teachers as appropriate) to look at availability and suitability of systems.
  • Giving a child an appropriate AAC system to begin developing expressive language.
  • Liaison with nursery/school/carers to educate others about the AAC system the individual is using.
  • The AAC method will require regular updating as vocabulary increases and needs change.

Some points you may wish to discuss with any therapist you contact:

  • The therapist's specialist credentials in the area of AAC (e.g. special training courses run by companies like Inclusive Technology, Makaton, Widgit Software).
  • The therapist should have experience in assessing and working with individuals using AAC, and should have knowledge of a wide range of AAC methods (e.g. signing, use of symbols, low-tech and high-tech communication systems) and also of different AAC providers and manufacturers.
  • If the individual is already using a method of alternative communication (e.g. signs, symbols, communication books or charts, communication aids), you may wish to talk to the therapist about that.
  • How much experience the therapist has with AAC.
  • Where the therapist sees people for assessment/therapy.
  • How much the therapist charges for assessment and/or regular therapy.

Click here to search for Speech Therapists in your area with AAC as a specialty.