What is AAC?
AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication. It refers to methods of communication that supplement or replace speech. These tools can help individuals with speech impairments, motor disabilities, or language disorders, allowing them to express thoughts, needs, and desires effectively.
AAC can take many forms, from low-tech solutions like picture boards and communication books to high-tech devices that generate speech using advanced software and hardware.
Who Can Use AAC?
AAC can be used by anyone who has difficulty with verbal communication. This includes individuals with a wide range of conditions, such as:
- Speech and language disorders
- Autism spectrum disorder
- Childhood Apraxia of Speech
- Cerebral palsy
- Developmental disabilities
For many, AAC can serve as a bridge to better communication, helping them engage with others more easily and meaningfully.
Why Do We Use AAC?
There are many reasons why AAC is important. It helps individuals:
- Express needs and desires: Without reliable communication, individuals may struggle to express their basic needs or make their thoughts known.
- Increase independence: AAC tools empower individuals to communicate without relying on others to interpret or assist in communication.
- Enhance social interactions: With AAC, people can engage in conversations, make friends, and participate in family or social activities.
- Improve quality of life: Communication is a fundamental part of human interaction. AAC enables individuals to connect in meaningful ways, boosting emotional well-being and self-esteem.
Is AAC Effective?
Research has shown that AAC can be highly effective, especially when the device is well-suited to the user’s needs and capabilities. A study by Dukhovny & Gahl (2014) highlighted how AAC users demonstrated device-specific recall abilities that improved their interaction speed and overall communication effectiveness.
The success of AAC is influenced by several factors, including the user’s ability to engage with the device, how well the system matches their needs, and ongoing support and training. Therefore, AAC is most effective when it is personalised and consistently used, with a strong support team helping to guide the individual in their learning process.
Principles for Choosing and Using AAC Devices
Selecting the right AAC device and strategy is crucial to its success. Several key principles should guide the decision-making process:
- Involvement of the communicator: The person using AAC should be involved in choosing the system, ensuring that it is relevant and purposeful to them.
- Ownership and roles: It’s important for both the communicator and their support team to have clear responsibilities and accountability regarding the use of the device.
- Feature matching: The device should match the individual's needs and abilities. For example, if someone has limited motor control, they may need a device that allows for eye gaze or switch access.
- Practice: Using AAC regularly is vital. Simply having an AAC device does not automatically make someone an effective communicator. Practice is essential for improving speed and fluency.
- Maintenance: There should be a clear system for maintaining and updating the device, with regular follow-up from a team of professionals to ensure its continued relevance and effectiveness.
What is High-Tech AAC?
High-tech AAC refers to communication devices that use advanced hardware and software to assist with speech and language. These devices generally include:
- Dedicated speech-generating devices: These are specialised devices designed solely for communication purposes.
- Off-the-shelf devices with speech output software: Devices like tablets or iPads equipped with software that allows speech output (these are non-dedicated devices).
- Single-message devices: Devices that generate a single message with the press of a button.
Benefits of High-Tech AAC
- Speech output: Many high-tech devices provide voice output, which can significantly enhance communication by using natural-sounding speech.
- Personalisation: High-tech AAC devices can be personalised quickly to meet the specific needs of the user.
- Vocabulary expansion: These devices can store large vocabularies, allowing users to express a wide range of ideas.
- Multiple access methods: High-tech AAC can accommodate different input methods such as touchscreens, eye gaze, or switch access, making them versatile for users with varying abilities.
- Interactive: Some devices include features like real-time language prediction, helping users communicate more efficiently.
What is Low or Lite-Tech AAC?
Low or Lite-tech AAC devices are simpler and more affordable alternatives to high-tech devices. These can include:
- Picture boards or communication books: These devices allow users to point to symbols or pictures to communicate.
- Single-message devices: Similar to high-tech versions but without the advanced features.
Benefits of Low or Lite-Tech AAC
- Affordability: Low-tech devices are generally much less expensive than their high-tech counterparts, making them accessible for individuals with limited resources.
- Ease of use: They are simple to create and use, often not requiring special training or technical knowledge.
- No charging required: Low-tech devices do not need to be charged, making them ideal for use in environments where electricity is unavailable.
- Reliability: They can be used in various environments, including outdoors or in water, where high-tech devices might fail due to weather or damage.
Types of AAC Systems
- LAMP (Language Acquisition through Motor Planning): This method uses motor memory and learning to help users quickly access vocabulary and phrases.
- Proloquo2Go: This application uses symbol-based communication and promotes customisation to support language development.
- Minspeak (Semantic Compaction): This system allows users to learn a small set of multi-meaning icons, which can be combined to form target vocabulary.
Customisation of AAC Devices
Customisation is a critical feature of both high-tech and low-tech AAC devices. Some customisation options include:
- Symbol size and grid personalisation
- Iconic representation: Adjusting the level of symbolism, from pictures to words, to suit the user's needs.
- Grid size and vocabulary choices: Customising the number of available icons and the content of those icons to ensure they are meaningful and relevant to the individual.
References
- Dukhovny, S. & Gahl, S. (2014). AAC users show device-specific recall abilities. Journal of Communication Disorders.
- Light, J. C., & McNaughton, D. (2014). Understanding AAC: An Overview and Framework for Practice. AAC Institute.
