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AAC

AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication)

More ways to communicate, connect, and participate.

Overview

What is AAC?

AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication. It includes different ways to communicate that can support spoken language or provide another option when speech alone does not meet a person’s needs. AAC can be used by children and adults and may be needed for a short time or long term.

AAC does not always mean using a communication device. It can include gestures, signs, pictures, communication boards or books, writing, communication apps, and speech-generating devices. Some people use AAC as their main way to communicate, while others use it alongside speech.

Speech-language pathologists can evaluate communication strengths and needs and help choose AAC tools and strategies that give a person the best access to communication. There are no prerequisite skills someone must show before AAC is considered. AAC should be considered when a person's current communication abilities do not fully meet their needs.

Who may benefit

When AAC support may be helpful

  • Spoken language is limited, difficult to understand, or unreliable
  • Communication breaks down often during everyday interactions
  • A person benefits from visual, written, or device-based support to express ideas
  • Speech is present, but additional supports improve independence or participation
  • Caregivers, teachers, or communication partners need help learning how to support AAC use
  • Current systems feel confusing, underused, or not well matched to the individual's needs

What support may include

AAC services can focus on...

  • Evaluating communication strengths, needs, and access considerations
  • Selecting or refining low-tech and high-tech communication options
  • Teaching the individual and communication partners how to use the system consistently
  • Supporting carryover across home, school, work, and community settings

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is AAC?

AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication. AAC includes different ways to communicate when spoken speech alone does not fully meet a person’s communication needs. AAC may supplement existing speech or provide an alternative way to communicate and can be used by both children and adults.

AAC can include gestures, signs, pictures, communication boards or books, writing, communication apps, and speech-generating devices. There are no prerequisite skills required before AAC can be considered, and an individual does not need to be completely non-speaking to benefit from AAC.

Questions about AAC?

We're here to help you understand what kind of communication support may fit best.

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