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Before answering the question, “What is
augmentative and alternative communication?” we must define
communication. It is any act by which one person gives to or receives
from another person information about that person’s needs, desires,
perceptions, knowledge, or affective states. Communication may be intentional
or unintentional signals, may take linguistic or nonlinguistic forms,
and may occur through spoken or other modes.
AAC is an area of clinical practice that attempts to compensate (either
temporarily or permanently) for the impairment and disability patterns
of individuals with severe expressive communication disorders.
An AAC system is an integrated group of components, including the symbols,
aids, strategies, and techniques used by individuals to enhance communication.
Aids refer to a physical object or device used to transmit or receive
messages. This can take the form of communication book, board or display,
chart, mechanical or electronic device or computer. AAC provides a means
to develop independence, increase productivity, and establish a more active
voice in decision-making.
There is no typical AAC user. People who use or need to have access to
AAC come from all age groups, socioeconomic groups, and ethnic and racial
backgrounds. Their only unifying characteristic is the fact that, for
whatever reason, they require adaptive assistance for speaking and/or
writing. These are individuals for whom gestural, speech and/or written
communication is temporarily or permanently inadequate to meet all of
their communication needs.
A variety of congenital or acquired impairments can cause the inability
to speak or write without adaptive assistance. Common congenital causes
of severe communication disorders include mental retardation, cerebral
palsy, autism, and developmental apraxia of speech. Acquired impairments
that most often result in the need for AAC assistance include amyotrophic
lateral sclerosis (ALS), multiple sclerosis (MS), traumatic brain injury,
stroke and spinal cord injuries
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Services that are available at HCMC include:
- Evaluation of interactive skills and needs
- Evaluation to determine the appropriate mode or system to establish
for an individual. This includes using state-of-the-art electronic communication
systems when appropriate.
- Assistance in improving communication skills ranging from basic “yes-no”
signaling and choice-making to functional conversation.
- Training in the use of the AAC system.
- Assistance in obtaining funding for necessary technology
- In-service sessions to professionals in medicine, rehabilitation,
and applied disciplines.
When you interact with an individual using an AAC system, approach that
person in the same manner you would interact with a speaking person. It
is best to face the AAC user while you give information or ask questions
rather than stand beside the person looking at the AAC system. Give the
person ample time to respond. AAC users prefer to communicate the message
independently rather than have the listener “fill in” or finish
the message.
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