AAC: Supporting Dianne’s Communication
For Speech Pathology Week 2026, we’re recognising how augmentative and alternative communication can support people to express themselves and participate in everyday conversations.
Augmentative and alternative communication, known as AAC, includes tools and strategies that support or provide alternatives to speech.
For Dianne*, staying connected with the people around her and participating in important conversations is an important part of everyday life.
As Dianne lives with Parkinson’s disease, communicating through speech has become more challenging over time. Wanting to continue expressing her thoughts, preferences and needs, she began working with a speech pathologist to explore communication options suited to her preferences, needs and everyday situations.
Stock image used to protect Dianne’s identity.
Exploring Augmentative and Alternative Communication
Dianne and her speech pathologist explored a range of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) options that could support communication in different situations.
Together, they identified tools that could help Dianne participate in conversations, share information and communicate what was important to her, particularly during specialist appointments and other everyday interactions.
This included using a communication app on her iPad as well as low-tech communication supports such as an enlarged printed keyboard, giving her additional ways to communicate when speech alone wasn’t enough.
Supporting Connection and Participation
Communication is about more than talking. It helps people build relationships, share experiences, express preferences and participate in everyday life.
Dianne’s husband is an important communication partner, and support extended to helping those around her understand the communication strategies and tools she uses. Her husband was also supported to understand how Dianne uses these tools and strategies in different situations.
Dianne now uses different communication supports depending on the situation, including when sharing information, participating in appointments and communicating with people close to her.
How Speech Pathologists Support Communication
Everyday Independence’s speech pathologists support children, young people and adults to build communication skills that are meaningful to their individual goals and everyday lives. Depending on the person’s goals and communication preferences, this may include exploring AAC, supporting understanding and expression, and helping family members and other communication partners use agreed tools and strategies.
Our speech pathologists work as part of a team, bringing in other practitioners when their knowledge and skills could support the person’s goals. Support takes place where people live, learn, work and spend time, helping communication strategies become part of everyday routines and relationships.
Talk to Us About What’s Important to You
Would you like to learn more about our NDIS speech pathology services? Speak to our team on 1300 179 131 or complete an online form to get started.
This story describes one person’s experience. Supports and outcomes vary depending on each person’s circumstances, goals and support needs. Dianne’s name and identifying details have been changed, and a stock image has been used to protect her privacy.
*Client’s name changed and stock image used to protect identity.
