Understanding AAC: More Than Just Talking
At Perth Speech Therapy, we believe communication is more than words—it’s about sharing ideas, feelings, and needs. For some people, speech isn’t always the best or only option. This is where AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) comes in.
AAC includes all the ways people communicate without talking, such as:
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Gestures and facial expressions
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Sign language
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Communication books or picture cards
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Speech-generating devices and apps
AAC supports children and adults with different needs—whether from birth (e.g. autism, cerebral palsy) or from acquired conditions like stroke or motor neurone disease.
What Does AAC Mean?
AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication:
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Augmentative communication supports spoken language (e.g. symbol boards used with speech).
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Alternative communication replaces speech (e.g. sign language or voice-output devices).
AAC can be as simple as a paper-based picture board or as advanced as a digital device with speech output. The goal is always the same: a reliable way to communicate.
Who Uses AAC?
AAC is useful for many people, including:
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Children with autism, developmental language disorders, or Down syndrome
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People with cerebral palsy
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Adults with aphasia after a stroke
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Individuals with progressive conditions such as ALS or Parkinson’s disease
Some people use AAC temporarily (e.g. during brain injury recovery), while others rely on it long-term. It can also act as a stepping stone to speech or remain the main form of communication.
Supporting AAC Users
Families, teachers, and speech pathologists play a key role in AAC success. Helpful strategies include:
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Model AAC use: Show AAC naturally in everyday life.
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Respond to all communication: Every attempt matters.
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Ensure access everywhere: Consistency builds skills.
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Collaborate: Families, speech pathologists, and educators should update AAC systems together.
At Perth Speech Therapy, we work with families to tailor AAC systems to each individual’s needs, ensuring communication feels natural, empowering, and effective.
Why AAC Matters
AAC isn’t about replacing speech—it’s about empowering people to connect, learn, and participate fully in life. With the right support, AAC users can thrive in school, work, and social settings.
Frequently Asked Questions About AAC
1. What is AAC in speech therapy?
AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) includes tools and strategies that support or replace speech, such as picture cards, sign language, or speech-generating devices.
2. Does AAC stop people from learning to talk?
No. Research shows that AAC does not prevent speech. In fact, it often encourages spoken language by reducing frustration and building confidence.
3. Who can benefit from AAC?
AAC helps children with autism, cerebral palsy, or developmental delays, as well as adults recovering from stroke, brain injury, or living with conditions like ALS or Parkinson’s disease.
4. What types of AAC are available?
AAC ranges from low-tech options like communication boards and picture cards to high-tech solutions such as tablet apps and voice-output devices.
5. How do I know if my child or family member needs AAC?
A qualified speech pathologist can assess communication skills and recommend whether AAC would help. At Perth Speech Therapy, we guide families through this process step by step.
6. Can AAC be temporary?
Yes. Some people use AAC during recovery (e.g. after a stroke), while others rely on it long-term as their main form of communication.
📍 Perth Speech Therapy
Unit 1, 595 Canning Hwy, Alfred Cove
📞 0412 256 656
👉 Learn more about our client-centred speech therapy approach