Communication is a fundamental tool that we use to express ourselves, understand others and build social connections. Having the means to communicate is especially essential for children and adults who are non-speaking (commonly referred to as non-verbal) or have Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) is a way to communicate that supports or replaces an individual’s communication abilities. “Augmentative” adds to an individual’s speech and incorporates manual signs, gestures and vocalizations they already use. “Alternative” is used in place of speech.
AAC devices play a critical role in improving speech and communication skills for those who have trouble vocalizing. AAC devices work by replacing or supporting spoken language, incorporating the individual’s communication abilities, to allow people of all abilities to express their feelings and participate in daily life.
Parents, special education teachers and speech-language pathologists can take advantage of these user-friendly devices to help anyone with functional needs (commonly referred to as special needs) interact more effectively with others and engage with the world in new ways.
Examples of AAC: A Quick Overview
A successful AAC system includes the following three components:
- A method to represent the communication:Â This aspect is the device format, like a tablet, book or board.
- A way for the individual to select the symbol: The selection type is based on the user’s abilities. Some options include a pointer, computer cursor or scanner.
- A message transmission method: This aspect covers how the individual’s parent, speech-language pathologist or special education teacher understands the message the user is saying to them. For example, the individual can share their communications board, or an auditory output system can state the message.
Since there are many ways to communicate, many types of AAC methods are available for adults and children. AAC includes technology options like speech-generating devices and tablets as well as no-tech or low-tech options like:
- Pointing to pictures, symbols and words
- Communication boards
- Drawing or writing
- Gestures
- Facial expressions
The Three Categories of AAC
AAC devices fall into the following three categories:
1. Assisted Communication Systems
Assisted devices, also called aided communication systems, require some form of external support. They can include computers, AAC devices or speech synthesis machines. Assisted devices are designed to help non-speaking individuals express themselves using low-tech aids like paper and pencils or high-tech aids like speech-generating devices (SGDs).
These systems may also include other means of transmitting and receiving messages, such as:
- Handheld devices
- Tablets
- Photographs
- Cards
- Charts
- Graphics
- Communication boards with symbols
- Text-to-speech software
2. Unassisted Communication Systems
Unaided or unassisted options rely on non-spoken means of communication, like:
- Facial expressions
- Body language
- Sign language
- Gestures
- Drawing pictures
Unaided AAC methods do not call for supplemental materials or special tools. Even so, unassisted communication generally requires an adequate level of motor control and a communication partner to interpret messages.
3. Electronic Communication Systems
Electronic aids enable users to create messages using letters, words, phrases and picture symbols. Some electronic AAC devices with more advanced processors can be programmed to produce spoken language.
Types of Communication Devices
As a parent, speech-language pathologist or therapist, you can find many mid-tech communication devices to support individuals with functional needs. The right AAC device depends on the setting where it will be used as well as the user’s abilities, preferences and developmental goals.
Here’s an overview of the diverse types of AAC communicators that help give adults and children more agency:
- One-message communicators: As the name suggests, one-message communicators are simple devices that play one message at a time. This communicator type is a user-friendly way to introduce basic messages, such as “hello”, “help” or “hungry.” These messages can be changed and re-recorded as needed.
- Two-message communicators: As users become comfortable with the one-message communicator, they can advance to two-message communicators that encourage self-expression by combining simplicity with a bit more versatility.
- Progressive communicators: A progressive communication device grows with your student or child’s skills as they work their way up from one or two messages to as many as 32. These communicators record and retain messages and display interchangeable icons that allow the user to refine their communication choices and strengthen their ability to express themselves.
- Wearable communication devices: Individuals with disabilities, speech difficulties or ASD can put a wearable AAC device on their wrist, leg, arm or hip to enable simple communication wherever they are.
- Classroom communication devices: Students can benefit from using classroom AAC devices in educational settings to get more involved in activities. Communication kits allow for greater classroom participation and social interaction for non-speaking students.
What Is AAC in Special Education?
From a special education standpoint, AAC devices have several advantages for children and adults who are non-speaking. Communication tools:
- Empower users to engage and participate in classroom activities more independently.
- Allow individuals to connect with their peers by contributing their input and sharing their thoughts.
- Improve and develop students’ communication and language development skills for better engagement in the classroom.
These are just a few of the many benefits of AAC in special education, with the ultimate goal of helping students engage more fully with the world around them.
Who Qualifies for an AAC Device?
Generally, any individual who struggles with speech and communication can use an AAC device, particularly when interacting with family members, friends, teachers and therapists. People affected by the following conditions can benefit from communication devices regardless of their actual and development ages:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Aphasia
- Apraxia of speech
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
- Cerebral palsy
- Intellectual disabilities
- Hearing impairment
- Dual sensory impairment
- Genetic syndromes
- Stroke
- Head injury
AAC devices can assist people of all abilities, as there are no specific skills, test scores or milestones they need to reach before AAC can help.
How Much Does an AAC Device Cost?
An AAC device or communicator can cost anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the type of device, features and customization options for the user. Low-tech and unassisted AAC devices are generally less expensive, while high-tech communicators tend to cost more. Certain devices may also require maintenance, repairs and software updates.
How to Choose the Right AAC Device for Your Child or Student
We recommend consulting with a speech-language pathologist, AAC expert or occupational therapist to help you decide which AAC or communication device is the best fit. At Enabling Devices, we work with specialists who can connect you with the right AAC device for an individual’s needs. Some of the factors we’ll consider are:
- Cognitive ability:Â Users who communicate with speech or vocalizations need a device that supplements their communication. Students who do not use vocal speech need a different device to replace speech.
- Physical ability: Your student’s motor skills will determine how they can use the AAC device. For example, users with limited or impaired motor skills may not be able to point to a picture.
- Most important vocabulary in daily life:Â The AAC device should have the words, symbols and pictures representing what they do in a typical day, so they can communicate their needs and desires.
How Do I Get an AAC Device?
There are no specific cognitive, linguistic or motor requirements for needing assistance with an AAC device. They can assist children and adults in low-demand and high-demand contexts, regardless of the presence of speech. With that in mind, individuals with functional needs — including ASD, physical disabilities and vision impairment — may be well-served by receiving a thorough assessment by a qualified speech-language pathologist to determine the most appropriate AAC device for their unique abilities and needs.
Generally, if your child or student’s school district performs an assistive technology evaluation, they will be responsible for covering the cost of the device. If you’re interested in purchasing an AAC device for an adult, some nonprofit organizations and government programs may provide funding assistance.
What Is the Best Communication Device for Individuals With ASD?
Those with ASD have varying communication and self-expression needs, which can include delayed speech development and challenges with social interactions. This means there is no one specific device, toy or activity that will be applicable to all children and adults with ASD.
Autism Spectrum Disorder kits can support communication skills in both adults and children with a range of abilities. These kits feature many different products and toys for increasing sensory awareness, providing vibro-tactile feedback and developing simple communication.
Support New Ways of Communicating With AAC Devices From Enabling Devices
At Enabling Devices, we’re committed to providing AAC devices and assistive technology and other solutions that give individuals who are non-speaking more agency and a deeper way of engaging with the world. Shop online or contact our team to learn how our products can enable new means of communication.
