What is AAC?
AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) means using different communication methods to express yourself and be understood.
Alternative communication is used when a person relies on methods other than speech to communicate. Augmentative communication supports people who use speech but benefit from additional communication tools to help them express themselves more effectively.
AAC helps people express their wants, needs, thoughts, feelings, and ideas. It is not just one approach; it includes everything from gestures and facial expressions to paper-based resources and speech-generating devices. This is known as multi model communication.
AAC can be divided into two areas: unaided AAC and aided AAC.
Unaided AAC (No-Tech AAC)
Unaided AAC uses only the person's body to communicate, so no equipment or technology is required. Examples include pointing, gestures, signing, facial expressions, body language, and vocalisations.
These natural forms of communication can be highly effective when communication partners understand and respond to them consistently.
Aided AAC
Aided AAC involves using something in addition to the person's body to support communication. This can range from paper-based resources to advanced electronic devices and is often grouped into three areas.
Low-Tech AAC
Low-tech AAC uses communication supports that do not require batteries or charging. These can include text, photographs, symbols, or objects to help people communicate their thoughts, needs, and feelings. They are portable and easy to personalise.
Examples include:
- Core boards using high-frequency core vocabulary
- Communication boards for specific activities or environments
- Symbol communication books with a wider range of vocabulary
- Single symbols for making choices or requesting items
- Visual timetables to support routines, understanding, and transitions
- Objects of reference to represent people, activities, or events
Many people use low-tech AAC alongside electronic communication systems.
Mid-Tech AAC
Mid-tech AAC consists of simple battery-operated devices that provide voice output but do not have the full functionality of a computer or tablet.
Examples include switch-activated communication devices and simple speech-output devices such as BIGmack® communicators, Talking Tiles, Talking Panels, and GoTalk devices. Messages can be recorded and played back, making communication more accessible in everyday situations.
High-Tech AAC
High-tech AAC uses computer-based technology and offers flexible communication options.
Examples include iPads with AAC apps such as GoTalk NOW, Grid for iPad, TD Snap, Predictable, and WordPower; dedicated speech-generating devices (SGDs); and eye-gaze systems. These systems allow users to create sentences, personalise vocabulary, and communicate across a wide range of environments.
Multimodal Communication
Most AAC users communicate in a multimodal way, using a combination of communication methods rather than relying on just one. These may include speech, gestures, facial expressions, signing, low-tech AAC, and high-tech AAC.
Different communication methods can be useful in different situations and with different communication partners. Together, these communication methods create a robust communication system, ensuring the person has a range of ways to communicate effectively across environments, activities, and everyday interactions.
Choosing the Right AAC
There is no single AAC system that suits everyone. The best communication support depends on the person's strengths, communication needs, environments, and personal preferences.
A referral for an AAC assessment can help identify the most appropriate communication support for a person. The assessment should consider their current communication skills, access needs, language understanding, everyday environments, support network, and long-term communication goals. A person-centred assessment helps ensure that any AAC system introduced is meaningful, accessible, and fits the person's everyday communication needs.
There is no one right way to communicate. AAC is not about replacing speech; it is about giving people the means to communicate, express themselves, and be heard.
Looking for Practical AAC Resources?
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