The Basics of Augmentative and Alternative Communication

Augmentative and alternative communications (AAC) are the alternative ways used to send messages from one person to another. Everyone uses augmentative communication techniques like facial expressions, gestures and writing. In situations where listening becomes difficult, like in a noisy room, we tend to augment our words with exaggerated gestures and facial expressions.

People having severe speech or language problems have to rely on standard and special augmentative techniques specially developed for them. Some involve using specialized gestures, sign language or Morse code. Others use communication aids like charts, bracelets and language boards. Objects on such aids may be represented by pictures, drawings, letters, words, sentences, special symbols or a combination of these.

There are electronic devices that speak in response to entries on a keyboard or other methods of input. Even simple things as a push of a button, a puff of air or even the wrinkling of an eyebrow can act as a mode of input. Possibilities are multiplying by the day. Augmentative communication users do not stop using speech. But when speech is complemented with standard and special augmentative communication, communication increases and so does the person’s social interaction, school performance, self-worth and scope of jobs. 

 Source: ASHA