Augmentative & Alternative Communication

Augmentative & Alternative

Communication (AAC)

What is Augmentative & Alternative Communication (AAC)?

• AAC is any device, system or method that improves the ability of a child with a speech impairment to communicate effectively.

• AAC often refers to formal devices and systems, including sign language, communication boards, and speech generating devices and can also include less sophisticated means of communication such as facial expressions, non-speech vocalizations and gestures.

• SGD is a device that is used to generate audible spoken words or phrases from a users input. This input may use symbols, letters or texts depending on the persons cognitive abilities.
• AAC is often considered when a child does not develop communication in the normal fashion or experiences a significant delay in development.
• AAC is not merely a substitute for how the child is currently communicating. It is used to augment the communication, replacing only the elements that are only intelligible, socially unacceptable or harmful to the child or others. (DynaVox Technologies, 2008)

The following chart shows that AAC supports should be used for and what supports are available:

AAC should be considered for children who	Types of AAC Support
- Are nonspeaking - Lack verbal imitation skills - Depend on verbal prompting to communicate - Depend on difficulty with spontaneous initiations Have difficulty communicating in stressful situation	- PEC system - Sign language - Interactive communication books - Communication cue cards - Conversational books - Voice Output communication aids

(Quill, 2000)

Advantages of AAC

• Allows people the freedom to communicate and express their ideas and feelings.
• It provides the individuals the ability to communicate effectively in all areas at home, school, and in the community.
• It increases their inner self-confidence and promotes independence.
• The devices are user friendly and adaptable to each person’s individual needs.
• The devices are compact and suitable for different use purposes.
• The devices are available to lease and are typically claimed through insurance benefits.
• Without the support of these devices, people would have greater difficulty communicating their needs, thoughts, ideas, and feelings.
• It provides choices, improves the quality of life and removes barriers around segregation giving all individuals equal rights. (C. Meidros. 2008)

Disadvantages of AAC

• Cost
• Prescription required; long wait lists
• Can isolate rather than empower
• Uncomfortable to carry
• Does it interfere with the development of speech?

References

DynaVox Technologies. 2007. Retrieved on February 22, 2008 from www.dynavoxtech.com

Bloorview Kids Rehab. Personal Tour of Augmentative & Alternative Communication Resource Room. Cynthia Medeiros. Communicative Disorders Assistant. February 20, 2008.

AMDI, Inc. Tech Talk 32. Retrieved on February 22, 2008 from www.amdi.net

Ablenet Inc. BIGMack. Retrieved on February 22, 2008 from www.ablenetinc.com

Enabling Devices. Hip Talk Plus. Retrieved on February 22, 2008 from www.enablingdevices.com

DynaVox Technologies. Dynavo. Retrieved on February 22, 2008 from www.dynavoxtech.com
DynaVox Technologies. DynaWrite. Retrieved on February 22, 2008 from www.dynavoxtech.com

AAC Services in Ontario

http://www.accpc.ca/aboutaac-ontarioservices.htm

Augmentative and Alternative Communication Partnerships - Canada
Tel. 416-444-9532
Please Note: ACCPC is not a clinical service.

Baycrest Centre for Geriatric Care
Adaptive Communication Service (ACS)
3560 Bathurst Street,
North York, ON M6A 2E1
Tel: 416-785-2500 Ext. 2933

Bloorview MacMillan Centre
Communication & Writing Aids Service (CWAS)
350 Rumsey Road,
Toronto, ON M4G 1R8
Tel: 416-424-3805

Bridgepoint Health
Augmentative Communication Service (TRACS)
14 St. Matthews Road,
Toronto, ON M4M 2B5
Tel: 416-461-8251

Erinoak
Assistive Devices Resource Service
2277 South Millway
Mississauga, ON L5L 2M5
Tel: 905-820-7111

Sunnybrook Centre for Independent Living
Assistive Technology Clinic
2075 Bayview Avenue,
Toronto, ON M4N 3M5
Tel: 416-480-5756

Toronto Rehabilitation Institute
Augmentative & Alternative Communication Clinic
The Queen Elizabeth Centre
130 Dunn Avenue,
Toronto, ON M6K 2R7
Tel: 416-597-3028