Augmentative Communication: How Speech Therapists Empower Communication for All - All About Seniors

By Alison Starkey PT MBA MHA CAPS CDP CFPS, owner of Gaitway of Charlotte, 833.232.4574Communication is a fundamental human right, yet for millions of people with speech or language impairments, expressing even basic needs can be a daily struggle.Enter augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), a set of tools, strategies, and technologies designed to support or replace spoken or written language.At the heart of AAC is the speech-language pathologist (SLP), also known as a speech therapist, whose role is to assess, customize, and implement communication solutions tailored to each individuals needs.What is Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)?AAC encompasses all forms of communication, other than oral speech, that are used to express thoughts, needs, wants, and ideas.It includes:Unaided systems: such as gestures, facial expressions, sign language.Low-tech systems: like picture boards, communication books, or letterboards.High-tech systems: including speech-generating devices (SGDs), communication apps on tablets, or computer-based communication systems.AAC can be augmentative (used to support existing speech) or alternative (used when speech is not functional at all).The Role of a Speech Therapist in AACSpeech therapists play a central role in helping individuals who may benefit from AAC.

Their responsibilities typically include:AssessmentAn SLP begins by conducting a comprehensive evaluation, considering:The individuals current communication abilitiesCognitive, motor, and sensory needsDaily communication environments and partnersThis ensures that the selected AAC method is both accessible and practical for the user.Selection of AAC ToolsBased on the assessment, the SLP collaborates with families and caregivers to choose the most appropriate AAC system.This could range from a simple picture exchange system to a complex speech-generating app tailored with specific vocabulary and voice options.Customization and ProgrammingAAC systems are not one-size-fits-all.Speech therapists personalize devices and systems to include relevant vocabulary, intuitive layouts, and culturally appropriate content.Training and ImplementationIntroducing an AAC system is just the beginning.

SLPs provide training to the individual, as well as their communication partners (parents, teachers, aides), to ensure consistent use across all environments.They teach strategies such as modeling (demonstrating use of the device), prompting, and encouraging spontaneous communication.Ongoing Support and MonitoringAs the individuals needs changedue to age, development, or progressso should their AAC system.SLPs continually monitor progress, update vocabulary, and provide additional support to ensure continued communication growth.Who Can Benefit from AAC?AAC is not limited to one condition or age group.

People who may benefit include those with:Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)Cerebral PalsyDown SyndromeDevelopmental delaysAphasia (post-stroke and other neurological conditions)ApraxiaTraumatic Brain Injury (TBI)Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)The Impact of AACWith the right AAC support, nonverbal or minimally verbal individuals can:Express their wants and needsParticipate in social interactionsEngage in educational and vocational activitiesBuild independence and confidenceFor many, AAC is a life-changing intervention.With guidance from skilled speech therapists, individuals who were once unable to communicate verbally gain a voice that allows them to connect with the world around them.Final ThoughtsAugmentative communication is more than just tools and technologyits about inclusion, dignity, and unlocking potential.Speech therapists are not just experts in communication; they are advocates, innovators, and partners on the journey to a fuller, more connected life for those with complex communication needs.Gaitway of Charlotte provides these critical and widely needed assessments and training services to Greater Charlotte.Even if you had a stroke 15 years ago and have been non-verbal ever since, you may benefit from an AAC system.