Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) Devices!

by Allyssa VelDink, MS, CCC-SLP

Have you ever seen an adult or a child using a picture system or a device? It’s amazing how many different ways there are to communicate. Some people are not able to communicate through traditional methods (i.e. voice). Using other ways to communicate is called AAC (Alternative and Augmentative Communication).

There are two types of AAC: aided and unaided.

Using your body to communicate through gestures, facial expressions, and sign language are all considered unaided AAC systems.

The other type of system is aided. An example of a simple-aided system would be using a pen and paper to write a message or using picture cards to communicate. A complex-aided system uses a Speech Generating Device (SGD) to talk. An SGD often looks like an iPad or a tablet, and it displays pictures and symbols that the user can select to communicate words and sentences. It can even be used to have full conversations.

Finding the right method of communication can be difficult, but there are many options to explore! AAC evaluations can be completed to help loved ones discover the best way for them to communicate.

If you or someone you know would benefit from having an AAC device, talk to an SLP about scheduling an evaluation for such.

Let us know if you have any questions or would like to schedule, click here!