Communication looks different for everyone. For some individuals, spoken words may not fully meet their communication needs. Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) provides additional ways to express thoughts, needs, and ideas—supporting communication for children, teens, and adults alike.
At Eastern Therapy NC, our speech-language pathologists use AAC to help individuals communicate more effectively, confidently, and independently—at any stage of life.
What Is AAC?
AAC refers to tools and strategies that support or replace spoken communication. AAC can be low-tech or high-tech, depending on the individual’s needs.
Examples include:
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Picture boards or communication books
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Sign language or gestures
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Tablet-based communication apps
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Dedicated speech-generating devices
AAC is not a one-size-fits-all solution. The goal is to match the communication system to the individual—not the other way around.
Who Can Benefit from AAC?
AAC can support individuals of all ages, including:
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Children with speech delays, autism, or developmental disorders
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Individuals with neurological conditions such as stroke, Parkinson’s disease, or ALS
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People with motor planning or apraxia challenges
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Individuals with temporary or progressive speech impairments
AAC can be used temporarily or long-term, and many individuals use AAC alongside verbal speech.
Will AAC Stop My Child (or Me) from Talking?
This is one of the most common concerns—and an important one to address. Research consistently shows that AAC does not prevent speech development. In fact, AAC often supports spoken language by reducing frustration and encouraging meaningful communication.
AAC gives individuals a way to communicate now, while continuing to support speech and language development over time.
How Speech Therapy Supports AAC
Speech-language pathologists play a key role in AAC success. Therapy focuses on:
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Selecting the most appropriate AAC system
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Teaching how to use AAC across daily routines
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Supporting families and caregivers in modeling AAC use
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Adjusting systems as communication needs change
AAC therapy is highly individualized and evolves as skills, confidence, and environments change.
AAC Across the Lifespan
AAC is not just for young children. Teens and adults benefit from AAC in school, work, healthcare settings, and social situations. Communication needs change over time, and AAC systems can adapt alongside the individual.
At Eastern Therapy NC, we believe that everyone deserves a voice. Whether communication support is needed temporarily or long-term, our speech therapy team works closely with individuals and families to create meaningful, functional communication solutions.
