Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)

The theme for Speech Pathology Week 2024 is ‘Communicate Your Way’ which also happens to be our tagline here at Joe’s Speech and Language! In line with this theme, I think it would be fitting to write a blog post about Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC).

AAC is described as any other method of communication outside of verbal communication. Due to a disability or impairment, some people are unable to use verbal language as their primary means of communication, therefore, they require something to fill this gap. This is where AAC comes in. Commonly, AAC is divided into categories of ‘low tech’ and ‘high tech’. Low tech AAC does not require any electronic device or battery to operate which means they can be used anytime to assist with communication. High tech AAC uses electronic devices and technology to assist with communication. I have provided some examples of these below:

Low tech:

• Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS)

• Gesture and sign language

• Visual schedules

• Customisable communication boards

• Communication books

High tech:

• Tablets (with applications)

• Computers (with software)

• Eye gaze devices

• Speech generating devices

• Voice output devices

There are advantages and disadvantages to both which I have also highlighted below:

Low tech advantages:

• Portable, cheap, customisable, can be replaced easily

Low tech disadvantages:

• Word choices are limited to the display, hard to communicate complex ideas, no voice output

High tech advantages:

• Access to limitless vocabulary, word prediction, supports language development over time (i.e., single words —> full sentences)

High tech disadvantages:

• Expensive, requires maintenance, fatigue (especially with eye gaze), reduced portability, requires extensive training of communication partners to use the device

As you can see, there are pros and cons to both. In most cases, however, you would see a combination of both types being used to support communication. As an example, if John wanted to visit the local pool with his support worker on a hot day in summer, and his main AAC device was a tablet with a language system downloaded onto it, he would not be able to use this device when he is in the pool. Therefore, his Speech Pathologist would recommend having a low tech communication board for these situations so John still has access to a method of communication. This means John’s communication is not limited to particular environments.

AAC assessment and implementation may involve a long process of trialling various low tech and high tech devices to see which one best meets the needs of the individual. Speech Pathologists are experts in AAC and can provide thorough assessments and recommendations. For participants on the NDIS, most AAC can be purchased using funding in your plan, however you will require input from a Speech Pathologist.

More often than not, we know someone who uses AAC to communicate in their everyday life. This Speech Pathology Week, we are reminded that communication is not limited to verbal language, rather, it encompasses a wide range of alternative methods. Here at Joe’s Speech and Language, we are experienced and passionate in helping you communicate your way. If you need assistance in determining if AAC is right for you, we would love to help!