Communicating and expressing our needs, wants or feelings is a part of our everyday lives. We all communicate through different methods and in our own ways. One way of communicating is through the use of AAC. What is AAC?
Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) is any form of communication other than vocal speech. It encompasses a diverse set of methods and tools designed to enhance communication for individuals with complex communication needs or those who cannot communicate verbally. Various types of AAC can be utilized to support an individual who needs support communicating or expressing themselves.
Who Uses AAC
Did you know that you use AAC every day and probably don’t even realize it? Sending a friend a text message to say hello, emailing your boss back about that important project, or simply giving a thumbs up or waving to someone… that’s all AAC!
AAC is all the tools we use to communicate in addition to or instead of verbal speech. Anyone who cannot meet their daily needs with spoken language alone would likely benefit from AAC. Some individuals cannot communicate verbally or have trouble being understood so they rely more on AAC to assist them. Some examples would be:
● Developmental disabilities (e.g., autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome)
● Acquired disabilities (e.g., stroke, ALS)
● Temporary communication impairments (e.g., post-surgery)
● And those who support them: caregivers, educators, healthcare providers, etc.
Types of AAC
From basic gestures and facial expressions to advanced electronic devices, AAC facilitates effective communication for people with various disabilities, ensuring they can express themselves, interact with others, and participate more fully in everyday activities and social
interactions.
By bridging communication gaps, AAC plays a pivotal role in enhancing independence, fostering inclusion, and empowering individuals to share their thoughts, needs, and emotions effectively.
Types of AAC include:
● No Tech (“unaided AAC”): Doesn’t require extra equipment, communication done with your body through gestures such as pointing, sign language, clapping, etc.
● Low Tech “lite-tech”: Doesn’t require a battery, paper-based communication tools such as core boards, picture boards or books, etc.
● Mid-Tech: Tool that is battery-powered with simple recording functions like a GoTalk device or messaging buttons.
● High Tech: Systems that use technology, tools with higher processing capabilities and synthesized speech such as visual tracking devices, iPads with apps, etc.
AAC can be embedded into natural and daily living routines. There are so many benefits to using AAC; it helps build and grow skills beyond just communicating.
● AAC enhances social interaction by enabling individuals to express their thoughts, emotions, and needs effectively, thereby reducing frustration and promoting meaningful connections with others.
● AAC supports independence by giving individuals more control over their communication, allowing them to participate actively in decision-making and daily activities.
● AAC facilitates academic and vocational success by providing tools that aid learning and professional communication.
● AAC promotes inclusion by breaking down communication barriers, ensuring that individuals with diverse communication needs can fully engage in society and access information and opportunities on an equal basis with others.
Overall, AAC enhances quality of life by empowering individuals to communicate effectively and
participate more fully in their communities.
Getting an AAC Device
Getting an AAC device involves a process of assessment, customization, and training to ensure it meets the specific communication needs and abilities of the individual, ultimately empowering them to communicate effectively and participate more fully in daily life.
School Funding Process:
With this funding option, there is easier collaboration with educators, and the school district pays for the device/system and maintenance, repairs, and replacements.
- Following a formal written request from the family, the school legally has to respond within 15 days according to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
- The school has 60 days for an SLP to complete the assessment with input from the IEP team.
- The SLP/AAC assessment team presents the report in an IEP meeting and proposes recommended goals, services, and equipment.
a. Note: If the family or others in the IEP team do not agree with the assessment findings and recommendations, they can request an independent educational evaluation (IEE). - SLP provides ongoing training to family and school staff on communicative competencies and implementation of the AAC system in a way that promotes growth in IEP goals in natural environments.
- An annual IEP meeting is held to report on progress and update goals and service,
Typically, teachers and service providers send out progress reports quarterly.
Insurance Funding Process:
With this funding option, the family owns the AAC system and insurance can cover the cost of the device, maintenance & repairs (with a request from an SLP).
- Physician provides a referral for the assessment. The family seeks out an SLP to complete the assessment.
- The SLP completes the assessment. The assessment must include a 30 fay trial of the recommended AAC system and a follow-up report.
- The SLP shares the report with the family and the physician, including recommended goals, family-driven services, and durable medical equipment. The report must include a statement declaring no conflict of interest, ICD10 disability codes, as well as speech
codes for billing purposes. With this funding route, all recommendations must be medically based. - SLP provides training to families on communicative competencies and implementation of the AAC system.
a. Note: There is variation in service delivery, including ongoing therapy vs. an initial training and who provides the services. - SLP provides progress reports to the family and insurance provider on a timeline determined by the insurance provider. The report should include proposed new goals and services.
Overall, by facilitating effective communication through a range of methods and technologies, AAC promotes social interaction, independence, and inclusion in both personal and professional settings.
It empowers individuals to express themselves, engage meaningfully with others, and pursue academic and vocational opportunities with confidence. Ultimately, AAC embodies a commitment to equity and accessibility, ensuring that all individuals have the means to communicate and participate fully in society, regardless of their communication abilities.
Supporting families in Cherry Hill, Voorhees, Camden, Mount Laurel, Gloucester, Deptford, Burlington, Marlton and throughout Burlington, Camden and Gloucester Counties. We’re currently enrolling! Contact us to learn more and to get started.
