Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Therapy in Perth

What is AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication)?

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) refers to the methods, tools, and strategies used to support or replace spoken communication for individuals with speech or language impairments. AAC can benefit individuals of all ages who face challenges with verbal communication, whether due to developmental disabilities, brain injuries, neurological conditions, or physical impairments.

At Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health, our experienced speech therapists work closely with children, adults, and their families to find the right AAC solutions to improve communication and foster independence.

Who Can Benefit from AAC?

AAC is designed to assist individuals who have difficulty communicating verbally. This can include, but is not limited to:

• Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

• People with cerebral palsy

• Stroke survivors with aphasia

• Children with developmental language delays

• Adults with neurodegenerative conditions (e.g., ALS, Parkinson’s disease)

• Individuals with traumatic brain injuries (TBI)

AAC can be used temporarily while speech and language skills are developing or as a long-term communication tool for individuals with permanent communication difficulties.

Types of AAC

AAC encompasses a wide range of communication methods, from simple, low-tech tools to advanced technology-driven systems. These are typically categorized as:

Low-Tech AAC:

• Picture Boards or Communication Books: Visual aids that allow users to point to images or symbols to convey their message.

• Gestures and Sign Language: Non-verbal forms of communication that use physical movements or sign systems like AUSLAN (Australian Sign Language).

High-Tech AAC:

• Speech-Generating Devices (SGDs): Electronic devices that produce speech when the user selects symbols or types text.

• Tablet and Mobile Apps: Apps like Proloquo2Go or LAMP Words for Life are widely used AAC tools for mobile devices and tablets.

• Eye-Gaze Systems: Technology that tracks the user’s eye movement to select words or symbols, especially useful for individuals with physical disabilities.

How AAC Therapy Works

Our skilled speech therapists at Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health assess each client’s unique communication needs and abilities to recommend the most appropriate AAC system. The goal is to provide the user with a method of communication that best suits their lifestyle and needs.

During AAC therapy, we focus on:

• Customizing the AAC System: Selecting the best AAC tool (low-tech or high-tech) and personalizing it to the individual’s preferences.

• Training and Practice: Teaching the user and their family or caregivers how to effectively use the chosen AAC device or method.

• Ongoing Support: We provide continued assistance, adjusting and updating the AAC system as necessary to ensure its effectiveness.

Our AAC programs aim to promote independence, inclusion, and confidence in communication.

The Benefits of AAC for Communication

AAC offers significant benefits for individuals who experience difficulty with speech, including:

• Increased independence: AAC allows users to express their thoughts, wants, and needs independently.

• Improved social interaction: By providing an effective communication method, AAC enables users to interact more easily with family, friends, and the community.

• Enhanced learning: For children, AAC can support language and literacy development by providing a visual and auditory way to understand and produce language.

• Reduction in frustration: AAC reduces the frustration associated with communication barriers, improving emotional well-being and quality of life.

Common Myths About AAC

Myth 1: "AAC will prevent my child from learning to speak."

Reality: Research shows that AAC often supports and enhances speech development rather than replacing it. Many children who use AAC systems show improvement in their verbal communication skills over time.

Myth 2: "AAC is only for people who will never speak."

Reality: AAC can be used both as a temporary solution during speech development and as a long-term method for those with lifelong communication difficulties.

Myth 3: "AAC is too complicated to use."

Reality: AAC tools are customizable and user-friendly, and our therapists ensure that users and their caregivers receive the training and support they need to use AAC effectively.

AAC in Schools and Everyday Life

AAC can be integrated into various settings to help users communicate more effectively in their daily lives. In schools, AAC can support children with communication difficulties by providing them with a way to express themselves in the classroom, participate in activities, and interact with peers.

At home, AAC can enhance social interactions with family and friends, fostering a more inclusive and connected environment.