AAC

AAC

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) involves supporting existing functional speech, or replacing a lack of functional speech. The goal of AAC is to enable individuals to efficiently and effectively engage in a variety of interactions and participate in activities of their choice.

AAC is used to support expressive communication of thoughts, needs and wants, and also to support receptive communciation or understanding. 

Types of AAC:

Unaided

Unaided AAC does not require any equipment or external aid e.g. key word sign, gesture, looking at something, facial expression and body language.

Aided

Aided AAC requires some use of equipment or external aid e.g. Communication board, photographs, visual timetable.

LOW TECHNOLOGY  refers to non-electronic systems that do not require a power source to be operated. A low technology system can include objects, photos, pictures, letters or words.

HIGH TECHNOLOGY refers to electronic or computer-like devices that allow a person to communicate using speech output. A high tech system may be an Ipad with a communication app installed or a specifically deisgned high tech communication system.

A low tech AAC system can often be used to support or supplement an individual’s high tech AAC system.