Communicating well with someone who uses AAC mostly comes down to a few habits: talk to them directly, give them time to respond, learn how their system works, and make sure their way of communicating is always within reach. The person using AAC is the communicator. Your job is to make the conversation work for them, not to speak on their behalf.
This guide is for family members, carers and support workers who want practical ways to get more comfortable with AAC in everyday conversations.
What AAC is
AAC stands for augmentative and alternative communication. It covers the many ways people communicate when speech is not their only or main way of getting a message across. AAC can add to speech, or replace it.
There are two broad kinds:
- Unaided AAC uses only the body, such as sign, gesture, facial expression, eye gaze and body language
- Aided AAC uses a tool, such as a picture or symbol board, a communication book, a letter board, or a tablet or device that speaks words aloud
Many people use more than one. Someone might use a speech-generating device for detailed messages, gestures for quick replies, and a few spoken words as well. Every one of those is real communication, and every one of them counts.
The most important thing: they are the communicator
It is easy, especially at first, to direct questions to the person standing next to someone who uses AAC. Try not to. Speak to the person themselves, look at them, and wait for their answer.
Assume they have something to say, even when it takes time to say it. A slow reply is not a sign that someone has nothing to contribute. It usually means their system takes longer to use than speech does.
It also helps to remember that a communication device or board is someone’s voice. Moving it out of reach, packing it away or picking it up without asking is a little like covering someone’s mouth. Ask before you touch it, and keep it where they can use it.
Practical tips for everyday conversations
Give them time
Waiting is the single most useful thing you can do. Composing a message on a device or board takes longer than speaking, so leave a longer pause than feels natural. Resist the urge to fill the silence or to guess the end of their sentence. If you are not sure whether they want help finishing a message, ask them.
Set up the conversation well
- Face the person and, where you can, get to the same eye level
- Cut down background noise and distractions where possible
- Make sure their device is charged, switched on and positioned where they can reach it
- Keep their board or book with them when you move between rooms or leave the house
Ask questions that suit the moment
Yes or no questions are quick and useful when time is short, but they limit what someone can say. When there is time, open questions such as “What would you like to do this afternoon?” give the person room to lead. Follow their preferences. Some people like being given choices, and others find it frustrating.
Check that you have understood
If you are not sure what someone meant, it is fine to say so. Repeat back what you think they said and let them confirm or correct you. Pretending to understand when you do not is far more frustrating for the person than a quick check.
Learn their system and use it yourself
The more familiar you are with someone’s AAC system, the easier conversations become for both of you. Spend some time learning where common words are, how the pages or screens are organised, and how the person likes to use it.
Many speech pathologists also suggest modelling: pointing to words on the person’s own board or device while you talk. For example, you might say “Let’s go outside” while pointing to “go” and “outside” on their system. Modelling shows how the system can be used in real situations, without pressure to respond in a particular way.
Just as importantly, keep the system up to date. If the person starts a new activity, meets new people or has new interests, the words they need will change too. Ask how new vocabulary can be added, and who is responsible for adding it.
Things to avoid
- Talking about the person in front of them as if they are not there
- Finishing their sentences unless they have asked you to
- Only offering yes or no questions when there is time for more
- Leaving their device or board out of reach, uncharged or at home
- Treating AAC as something to use only in therapy sessions, rather than all day, every day
Working with their speech pathologist and support team
A speech pathologist can help the person, their family and their support workers get the most out of an AAC system. That might include choosing or adjusting a system, adding vocabulary, and showing family members and support workers how to communicate using it. If you are unsure how to support someone, or you have noticed something that is not working, their speech pathologist is a good person to talk to.
It helps when everyone around the person uses AAC in a consistent way. Sharing what works, which words are being added and which situations are tricky makes it easier for the person to communicate across home, work, school and the community.
Communication devices are one kind of assistive technology. Whether assistive technology is part of someone’s NDIS plan, and how it can be used, depends on their individual plan. The NDIS has information about assistive technology and advisors, and a planner or support coordinator can help check what applies.
If you would like to know how Care For Welfare supports communication, including AAC, you can read more about our NDIS speech pathology services. If you have questions, you are welcome to get in touch with our team.
General information only. Not personal advice. Speak with your NDIS planner, support coordinator, or allied health provider for advice specific to your situation.
