Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) is an umbrella term for a range of methods, systems and devices that provide either an alternative method to verbal communication or additional support to verbal communication. There are many ways that AAC can be used to support communication, for example a user may point to, press, or look at an electronic device to produce words and phrases.

Some individuals may have difficulty using verbal speech to communicate. AAC provides an alternative or additional mode of communication for these people. For example, someone with autism spectrum disorder may be non-speaking, and may therefore use an AAC device as an alternative to verbal speech to communicate words and phrases so that they can participate in their environments and express who they are and what they need and want. Another example could be someone who has had a stroke – they might have difficulty using their muscles for speech and might be difficult to understand. They may therefore use an AAC device to augment verbal communication to support the understanding of their communication partner.

Speech pathologists can work with people who may benefit from AAC to determine the best type of AAC device that is suited to that person’s needs. They can then support them to learn how to use it in their everyday life.

Using AAC to communicate might seem very different to using verbal speech for communication, however, for some people that have trouble using verbal speech or who are non-speaking, AAC is the best method to support that person to interact with the people around them and express themselves. Sometimes AAC might seem slower, or it may be difficult for an individual to learn, however this does not mean it is not beneficial and worth learning!

At Hanrahan Health, our speech pathologists can explore a range of AAC options with clients and their families to find the one that is most suited to the individual’s needs. Our speech pathologists can support the individual and their family to learn how to use AAC.

If you’re interested in learning more about AAC or having an assessment conducted, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Hanrahan Health via our website, via phone (02) 4862 5063 or via email at admin@hanrahanhealth.com.au.