AAC

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) refers to any form of communication used by an individual who has difficulty relying on verbal speech, due to a congenital or acquired disability.

Communication is a basic human right, and AAC can be a valuable tool for individuals who have difficulty speaking. AAC can support the development of language skills, help individuals understand their surroundings and increase their participation and inclusion in daily activities. It serves as a means to facilitate communication and foster social connection. An AAC system may be either a short-term or a long-term solution to communication difficulties that are being experienced.

Individuals with limited verbal abilities may use AAC to communicate in the form of;

• Gestures

• Manual signs

• Vocalisations

• Pointing to symbols

• Communication boards-pictures and letters

• Speech generating devices and applications

Common AAC populations

Individuals with congenital disabilities such as;

• Apraxia of speech

• Cerebral Palsy

• Developmental Disabilities

• Generic conditions

• Intellectual disability

Individuals with acquired disabilities such as;

• Stroke

• Traumatic or acquired brain injuries

• Neurodegenerative diseases

• Apraxia

• Surgeries, trauma or injury to speech generating muscles such as neck, jaw, tongue

• Intubated patients

• Vocal fold paralysis

How can we help?

A speech pathologist takes on the role and responsibility of assessing, diagnosis and treating a person requiring AAC intervention. Your therapist can assist in choosing an appropriate tool/system which involves determining the needs of the individual with a disability and their communication partner(s). The Speech Pathologist also engages in advocating, educating, training and researching culturally and linguistically appropriate intervention for the client.

**It is important to note that using an AAC system will not prevent a child/individual from developing spoken language and literacy skills.