Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
Services for Adults with Aphasia
and Acquired Apraxia

We specialize in adult-focused AAC services, including:

• Personalized evaluations

• Communication device trials

• Customized vocabulary set up

• Training designed to support speech recovery and effective communication

What Is AAC?

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) refers to tools and strategies that help communication when speaking is difficult or inconsistent. AAC can support speech rehabilitation while also providing reliable ways to express needs, thoughts, and ideas.

AAC options include:

• Speech-generating devices

• Tablet or iPad communication apps

• Picture or symbol communication boards

• Communication books

• Text-to-speech devices

AAC is often used alongside speech therapy to enhance progress for people with aphasia or apraxia.

Who Benefits From AAC Services?

Our AAC consultations are designed for adults who have:

• Aphasia after stroke or brain injury

• Apraxia of speech (acquired or post-stroke)

• Communication difficulties from neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease or traumatic brain injury

These services are exclusively for adults, focusing on restoring independence in daily life, work, and social communication.

What Happens During an AAC Consultation?

During a consultation, an experienced speech-language pathologist will:

1. Assess current communication skills – evaluate speech, language comprehension, and functional communication.

2. Trial AAC systems – test devices, apps, or low-tech tools to find the most effective options.

3. Create a personalized AAC plan – select devices or strategies tailored to your abilities and daily communication needs.

4. Provide training – teach you and your caregivers how to use AAC successfully.

5. Support your implementation – discuss how to integrate AAC into home, work, and social environments.

Types of AAC for Adults

High-Tech Solutions

• Speech-generating devices

• Tablet-based communication apps

• Eye-gaze technology for severe motor limitations

Low-Tech Solutions

• Picture or symbol boards

• Communication books

• Visual supports for daily routines

We choose your AAC based on a personalized assessment of motor skills, cognitive abilities, and communication goals.

Why AAC Is Important

AAC can be used temporarily or long-term, depending on the individual’s progress and goals.

AAC gives adults with aphasia or apraxia the ability to:

• Express needs and preferences

• Participate in conversations at home or in the community

• Reduce frustration from communication difficulties

• Support ongoing speech therapy and recovery

Does using AAC mean that speech therapy will stop or verbal speech won’t improve any more?

No! Think of AAC like a tool in the communication toolkit.

AAC will help support more independent and more reliable communication while verbal speech is impaired. AAC helps support progress.

Schedule an adult AAC Consultation

AphasiaCo specializes in AAC for adults with aphasia and apraxia.

We provide one-on-one evaluations, device recommendations, and caregiver support to ensure effective communication in daily life.

Contact us today to schedule your adult AAC consultation.

AAC Frequently Asked Questions

Can AAC help adults after a stroke or brain injury?
Yes. AAC can provide reliable ways to communicate while supporting speech and language recovery.

Does trying AAC mean that my speech therapist will stop working on my speech?
No. AAC is a tool to give you access to more communication options. Speech therapy will help you use AAC and continue to work on goals you set before AAC.

Is AAC only for permanent speech loss?
No. AAC is beneficial even if some speech returns, and it can complement ongoing therapy.

Do I need to know how to use technology?
No. Training is included, and we find solutions that match your abilities and comfort level.