Who might benefit from using augmentative and alternative communication AAC )?

Technology’s changing our lives and has given us the means to do what was thought to be impossible - to give voice to others.

In this video, Stephen Hawking, discusses his new communication system with a BBC journalist.

Stephen Hawking is an AAC user.

So, what is AAC?

ASHA’s definition: "Augmentative and Alternative Communication is Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) includes all forms of communication (other than oral speech) that are used to express thoughts, needs, wants, and ideas. We all use AAC when we make facial expressions or gestures, use symbols or pictures, or write."

Smiling when talking to a friend, inserting an emoticon when sending a message, raising shoulders to express uncertainty are all examples of AAC.

Who benefits from AAC

AAC systems are designed for individuals who are not able to use functional speech temporarily or permanently. For example, a child might use a low tech system while his/her speech and language is developing. When an AAC system is put in place permanently, it is seen as the individual’s primary method of communication throughout his/ her life.

Additionally, AAC systems are sometimes appropriate to supplement individuals whose speech is difficult to understand. In these cases, verbal speech remains the main method of communication, and AAC system is only used as a means to clarify communicative breakdowns.

Most often, Augmentative and Alternative Communication is prescribed for children with acquired communication disorders such as Autism Spectrum Disorders, Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome,Developmental delay, Apraxia of Speech, which result in significantly compromised communication skills.

Some individuals with acquired conditions, like stroke for example, result in loss of communication skills later in life, and may also be candidates for AAC.

Individuals suffering from progressive disorders (e.g., Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, Huntington’s Disease) may also benefit from AAC.

Selection

The process of selection of communication system is the combined effort of a team of professionals: a speech-language pathologist, an occupational therapist, a physiotherapist, a physician, an engineer, a vision specialist, a learning specialist as well as the AAC user and her/ his family.

AAC systems

Unaided Communication Systems- rely only on the individual’s body to convey the message. Gestures, sign language, and nonverbal communication are all examples of unaided systems.

Aided Communication Systems- rely on additional materials and/ or equipment to convey the message and involves visuals, communication books, and speech-generating devices.

The biggest advantage aided communication systems have over the unaided ones is in the transparency of their messages. Everyone knows that a red stop sign means we have to stop, whereas only a limited number of people know sign language and understand the meaning each sign represents.

The benefits of using AAC systems

Social Interaction

Studies show 30-50% of all children with ASD don’t develop functional speech. Many children with developmental delay also rely on AAC to communicate. AAC provides a way for individuals to participate in routines, games, and learning.

Behaviour

The relationship between behaviour and communication has been well documented in the research literature. Therefore, it should not be surprising that the implementation of AAC systems often leads a decrease in maladaptive behaviours (e.g., screaming, hitting, pinching, etc).

Communication

AAC systems support the development of expressive, receptive language, and speech production skills.

Universal

AAC systems can be adapted to match each child’s cognitive and language level. There is no expectation that children would need a certain set of skills in order for AAC to be introduced.

Literacy

Through AAC systems, children severe expressive language delays can be introduced to grammar and literacy at the same age their peers learn these skills.

Recommended readings:

Millar, D., Light, J., & Schlosser, R. (2006). The impact of augmentative and alternative communication intervention on the speech production of individuals with developmental disabilities: A research review.Journal of Speech Language Hearing Research, 49, 248-264.

Beukelman D., Mirenda P. (2005). Augmentative and alternative communication: Supporting children and adults with complex communication needs.(3rd Ed.)

Augmentative & Alternative communication devices have proven to have positive effects on people with communication deficits. What is AAC?  And how can systems such as speech generating devices (SGDs) help people with limited ability to speak? Read on to find out more:

What is AAC?

Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) is a term referring to all communication other than natural speech. This includes communication methods that supplement and substitute the natural speech and language of individuals. For people with communication difficulties and comprehension challenges, communication devices are a way to express their feelings, opinions, needs, and wants.

Types of AAC

Unaided 
There is no equipment involved. Communication generally happens through sign language, vocalizations, gestures, body language, and facial expressions.

Aided 
Aided systems involve users communicating using external tools. The tools can be further classified into low-tech and high-tech communication systems.

Low Tech
The use of simple tools such as a picture board falls under the low-tech category. These tools do not require electric power or electronic components for their functioning. The user’s method of conveying a message through the communication boards or books largely depends on their motor skills and physical abilities.

You can download Avaz’s low tech communication boards here.

        High Tech 
This comprises strategies involving the use of electronics and other technologies. This includes computers, speech-generating devices, and tablets. A communication app for iPad or Android with pictures and text is an example of high-tech system.

People with complex communication needs can benefit from using multiple communication modalities. While we want to encourage the use of robust AAC devices such as Avaz AAC to support a communicator’s progress, all modes of communication must be acknowledged to motivate communication.

Symbol and Text-Based AAC

Individuals who have difficulty communicating using verbal speech or those having language difficulties can benefit from symbol-based AAC. Symbols provide a visual representation of words and ideas. A symbol based system can help communicators gain language and literacy skills. Avaz AAC has research-based pragmatic vocabulary that consists of over 15,000 pictures. It also has a variety of high-quality voices with which a communicator can tap to form sentences quickly.

Text-based AAC involves the communicator typing to communicate. Several AAC systems support symbol as text-based AAC. This is because most communicators may begin to use symbols and then go on to type after learning to read and write. Some communicators prefer symbols even if they are literate. This is why Avaz AAC’s keyboard has the option of having pictures along with text. The Avaz keyboard also has prediction capabilities and spell check which supports emergent communicators in acquiring language skills.

The Need for Augmentative and Alternative Communication

People with complex communication needs may struggle to make themselves heard and understood.

Making friends and participating in school can be difficult for individuals with communication deficits. Their struggle to interact with peers can cause poor self-esteem and even lead to a life of exclusion and loneliness.

Their preferences are often taken for granted and intentions are second-guessed. This results in them not having agency and a sense of control.

Limited ability to speak can prevent individuals from leading fulfilling lives and from realizing their full potential.

Who can Benefit?

• Children and adults with speech and intellectual disabilities – non-verbal, partially verbal and single word communicators.
• Children and adults with Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Down’s Syndrome, Rett Syndrome, PDD-NOS, Aphasia, Apraxia or any other condition that affects speech.
• Adults with speech difficulties due to Throat Cancer, Stroke, Traumatic Brain Injury, and Neurological Disorders
• Children with delayed development indicators
• It supports individuals with other genetic disorders that affect speech

How Do Communication Systems help?

Augmentative and Alternative communication devices act as a communication bridge. It connects users to their support system, which includes their families, friends, therapists, and Speech and Language Professionals (SLP). The benefits include:

• Gives the ability to communicate one’s ideas and feelings
• Reduces anxiety
• Reduces behavior issues
• Increases independence
• Boosts self-confidence
• Provides access to equal opportunities at education and work
• Improves social relationships
• Improves overall Quality of Life by living a life with Dignity and Inclusion

Do you have any information to add regarding what is AAC (Augmentative and alternative communication)? Please share your ideas in the comment section below!!

References:

https://aainstitute.org

https://www.asha.org/public/speech/disorders

https://communicationmatters.org.uk/

Who benefits from augmentative and alternative communication?

What is AAC who benefits from the use of AAC?

Who needs augmentative and alternative communication?

What is augmentative and alternative communication AAC and whom can it help?