AAC Myths

Megan Zecher
38 minutes ago
5 min read

Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) forms are used far and wide, despite people not being aware of it. Whether it’s your friend who likes to talk with their hands, emojis to convey whether that text was a joke or not, writing notes to one another, pointing to pictures, or using a fully dedicated AAC device, we all use AAC to a degree to communicate with others.

AAC use is common, and so are some myths regarding AAC!

AAC Speech therapy focuses on communicating with tools and items such as devices.

What is AAC?

Let’s start with what augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) is. AAC refers to ways in which we communicate that are not verbal. That can include gestures, facial expressions and body language, writing, texting, pointing to pictures, words, or letters, using speech-generating devices (such as tablets), and more. Depending on how much technology is needed, we often group AAC types into no-tech (gestures, body language, etc.), low-tech (picture boards, visual aids, etc.), and high-tech (tablets, devices, etc.).

If you want to learn more about AAC overall, follow our link here.

So, why the myths?

There are certain thoughts that often pop up when we talk about AAC, as people have some concerns about its recommendation in therapy. There’s nothing wrong with concerns or asking questions! Part of a therapist’s job is to provide answers that will help inform their clients and their clients’ loved ones to allow them to make informed decisions. Read below to learn more about these myths.

Myth 1: AAC will prevent a client from verbally speaking.

Nope! Actually, research (which you can read about here) supports findings that AAC supports verbal communication. It provides image and text support for the user; higher tech options also provide auditory support for producing words and phrases.

The idea that someone would become “lazy” and rely on their device or board, rather than verbal speech, is not uncommon. However, consider the fact that speaking is much easier than having to flag down someone to pay attention to your communication board or device, find the word or words you want to use, and select them. Your voice also does not need to be carried around separately from you, cannot be taken and put on a shelf out of reach, nor needs batteries! Verbal speech is more convenient across the board, it’s just not always an option.

It should be noted, as well, that some clients cannot physically speak and AAC is their voice. Verbal communication is more widespread, but it is not always an option. Regardless of someone’s verbal skill, they deserve an avenue to communicate.

AAC doesn't discourage verbal skills, it supports them!

Myth 2: AAC is only for nonverbal communicators.

While AAC is often recommended for nonverbal communicators, nonverbal clients are not the only clients who can benefit from AAC! Some people believe that if their loved one can use a few words or express very basic needs, that that’s enough for them to communicate. Don’t get us wrong - communication in any form is awesome! However, AAC can provide even more vocabulary, phrases, and thoughts. Our communication is how we share our world with others. When you have limited speech, you have limited ability to share yourself. AAC allows people to communicate more beyond their basic needs to convey their feelings, thoughts, wants, and more.

Communication helps us share ideas with others - we don't just need food and drink!

Myth 3: AAC should only be used in specific situations or places - otherwise it would be distracting!

The most often I hear about this is within the classroom setting, but it can happen anywhere, such as restaurants, stores, and more.

Here’s the thing: people can be distracting with or without AAC. Regarding these types of settings, it can be tempting to put AAC away as to reduce distractions to others or for the user. But remember: AAC is a client’s voice. You’re not just taking away a board or tablet, you’re taking away a part of their communication. AAC distraction works like any other type of distraction that can happen verbally - and should be treated the same way!

It can be tricky to integrate AAC in some settings, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth a shot. At the end of the day, if it doesn’t work for you and your family, then it’s worth having a discussion with your therapist to problem-solve and find other possible solutions!

AAC in places like the classroom can be tricky, but it doesn't mean it's not worth it!

Myth 4: Once we get AAC, we don’t need speech therapy.

AAC is amazing, but it is not magic. Sometimes people do just need to get access to AAC and they’re golden, but more often than not, they still need some speech therapy support. Speech therapy can teach new words and phrases through use of AAC, how to utilize AAC in different settings, train loved ones on use of AAC, customize AAC for a client, and more. The same way it can take practice to build verbal language skills, it can take practice to build AAC skills.

Myth 5: Not everyone could benefit from AAC.

Everyone can benefit from AAC! It doesn’t matter if there are physical limitations or cognitive limitations, or if a client is young or old. Speech therapists can help find AAC that best fits the client! We can use no tech, low tech, high tech, or a combination of different types of AAC to help our clients communicate.

I’ve even used AAC before when I’ve lost my voice, relying on typing into my Notes section on my phone to communicate with coworkers.

To see more about what types of AAC there are, learn here.

AAC is for everyone and support through speech therapy to develop skills can be life-changing.

Myth 6: AAC is only for children.

AAC is not just for kids - plenty of adults can benefit from AAC. It’s not uncommon that a speech therapist may recommend AAC use for clients after strokes or head injuries. These types of events can impact someone’s ability to communicate verbally, either temporarily or permanently, and AAC is often recommended alongside it. AAC may also support memory skills that become more limited as someone ages.

Anyone can benefit from AAC - no matter their age.

Myth 7: People need to be “ready” for AAC.

There is not a perfect time for AAC introduction - sure, some skills may improve someone’s speed of someone picking up AAC use, but it doesn’t mean that someone has to be “ready” to use AAC.

Speech therapists can meet AAC users where they are when they start using it. That’s part of the point of therapy!

Myth 8: I can’t learn or use AAC! It’s too overwhelming!

Don’t be so hard on yourself! Whether its yourself or a loved one, remember that therapists like us are here to help guide you through the (sometimes) convoluted process of acquiring AAC, personalizing it for use, and training family and friends in its use. You are not alone! Ask questions, seek support, and get the resources you need to help make this easier.

Use the following links to find more resources and learn more about AAC!