What is AAC?
AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) refers to different ways that people communicate, either as well as, or instead of using speech.
People might use AAC if they have difficulties with their speech. This can include everything from body language and simple signs or gestures, to symbol boards and electronic communication aids.
Almost everyone uses some form of AAC in addition to speech, for example, using facial expressions or a gesture to add to what is being said.
AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication
Augmentative means “adding to”, so this is anything used to add to someone’s speech. For example, someone might use AAC if their speech is not clear, if they are talking to people less familiar to them, or if they’re in a loud or stressful environment.
Alternative means “instead of”, so anything used instead of speech. Someone might need alternative communication if they cannot speak or have language difficulties that affect their ability to communicate. This may be someone who has never had speech or someone who has lost their speech.
Unaided AAC
This doesn’t need any equipment or resources. It includes strategies such as facial expressions, sign language, and gestures such as a wave or pointing to something.
Paper based AAC
This is also called “low-tech AAC”. It includes printed resources like alphabet boards or symbol communication books, and symbol exchange systems such as PECS.
Electronic AAC
Also called “high-tech AAC”, this includes devices which speak your message out loud, sometimes called speech generating devices or voice output communication aids.
Who benefits from AAC?
AAC can aid people of all ages with disabilities, including cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, autism, aphasia, and MND/ALS, or anyone who has limited or no speech due to a health condition.
How can AAC help?
There are many benefits to using AAC beyond asking for things you want and need. With the successful use of AAC, someone can express their thoughts and opinions, share stories and jokes, ask for information and communicate when something is wrong.
Using AAC can help people to build relationships with their community. It can help someone to take part in social groups and situations that might not have been available to them before.
Grid software
Our flagship Grid software helps people from all of the world to communicate. There is content for all ages and abilities and it is available in over 40 languages, on Windows and iPad.
AAC Devices
Our specialised AAC devices are designed for communication with symbol or text based vocabulary, and using accessible apps to control your environment and computer.
Training in AAC
With our range of courses for all levels, from beginner to expert, you can choose from self-led e-learning, face-to-face, or online courses to get the most of our devices and software, with specialist AAC training from Smartbox.