Word of the Week: Augmentative and Alternative Communication

Augmentative and alternative communication, or AAC, are the ways people can communicate without talking. People of all ages who have difficulty with speech or language use AAC, and it can be used short-term or long-term.

There are many diverse AAC methods. Low- and no-tech options include sign language, gestures, facial expressions, communication boards, writing, drawing pictures, or pointing to things. There are also high-tech options, like tablets with communication boards, talking keyboards, and computers with speech-generating devices. All of these modes help people communicate without speaking. Most people use many methods together, called multimodal communication.

In fact, everyone uses AAC to a certain extent. When you nod your head to say “yes”, point when giving directions, or send a text message, you are using an alternative to talking. Some people rely partially or completely on AAC because verbal language isn’t the easiest way to communicate.

Without verbal language or AAC, communication can be frustrating, and people often feel isolated. People who use AAC say that it has many benefits, including increased autonomy, deeper social connections, and more opportunities.