What is aac

When someone watches a football game, they may need sports terminology. When they visit Disneyland, they need to name all the different princesses, heroes, and evil villains. And so on! If you have more questions about AAC devices or pediatric therapy services more generally, please do not hesitate to reach out.

Our team would be happy to answer your questions. Complete our Get Started form or reach out for a free phone consultation. Are you interested in services for your child? Founded by Michelle Worth and Erin Vollmer, TherapyWorks provides in-home speech , occupational and physical therapies in Michigan, Ohio and Illinois and teletherapy nationwide.

Skip to content. Get Started. What is the difference between augmentative communication and alternative communication? In short, AAC is anything that helps anyone communicate effectively. What is an AAC device? Who uses AAC? People use AAC on either a temporary or long-term basis. How do people communicate using AAC? AAC is generally divided into three categories: High-tech : digital technologies such as iPads and computers with text-to-speech software.

Amplifiers and devices with pre-recorded messages also fall into this category. Low-tech : picture symbols, drawing tools, communication boards, picture books, etc. No tech : sign language, gestures, facial expressions, body language, and even non-linguistic vocalizations. This kind of AAC has existed since the dawn of time and is still an essential tool for helping people with limited verbal skills communicate. Research shows that the opposite is true. Using a device can have a positive impact on speech and language skills.

Many users report an increase in speech after they start using an AAC device. This is because devices offer stimulation that can help language recovery or acquisition. At times, you might be able to communicate certain words and phrases clearly. However, at other times you may get stuck and be unable to communicate the right words or complex thoughts and stories.

In these cases, an AAC device can be very helpful by allowing you to use more meaningful words and phrases to share important messages. Some tips to make using an AAC device as beneficial as possible include:.

Call or click the button below to schedule a consultation. Skip to content. Increased independence for everyday activities. Ability to better participate in day-to-day life.

Fewer communication breakdowns. Better connection with family and friends. Aphasia Developmental Disabilities. Autism Traumatic Brain Injury. Apraxia Primary Progressive Aphasia. Some tips to make using an AAC device as beneficial as possible include: Personalize the device. About AAC. Learn more. You may need to insure your communication aid against loss, theft or accidental damage.

Getting an assessment. Training and keeping up to date. Suppliers of equipment and services. Supplier Database. AAC Information Days. Commissioning and Evidence. AAC Commissioning England. Different types of AAC. Low-tech communication systems. High-tech communication systems. Talking with an AAC user for the first time may feel daunting. AAC users have made the following suggestions to help you relax and enjoy a conversation with them.

If possible choose a quiet environment with minimal background noise so you can concentrate on the conversation. Face the person you are talking with — we all find it easier to communicate naturally when we can pick up visual clues like body language, gesture and facial expressions. Start off by asking if they need anything to help them have a successful conversation with you.

Make eye contact and speak directly with the AAC user, not their assistant. If you have never listened to an AAC user before in a conversation, let them know — they will be patient and assist you the best they can.

Start with concrete subjects such as the current situation you are both in. When you ask a question please wait for a reply. Keep your own remarks short and simple. It helps the AAC user and gives them a chance to speak. Take the time to make sure you have understood the AAC user correctly by rephrasing their response. Try to introduce only one topic of conversation as a time, as the pace of interaction is slower.

Be clear when you are changing the topic; the AAC user may miss subtle facial clues if they are looking at their system.

It is much harder for an AAC user to interject into a conversation. They will appreciate it if you make time and invite them to ask questions, rather than expect them to. Asking questions is important in conversation, but be aware that there are different types of questions.

It is good to structure a conversation by only asking one question at a time.