Considerations

Ongoing process and support

Successfully using AAC is really about making sure every place is supportive of all the ways someone communicates. But this isn’t done once and then forgotten. It is an on-going process and AAC system needs will be periodically revisited as you, your loved one or your communication partner’s situation changes. This process will also be updated as new technologies are invented.

Rights

AAC users are protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to use their device in a wide range of settings, including education, workplaces, healthcare, and community spaces. The ADA recognizes communication access as a civil right, which means organizations and service providers must allow and support the use of AAC and provide reasonable accommodations when needed. Specifically, using AAC is not a preference or special privilege. It is a legally protected way for AAC users to communicate, participate and be included on an equal basis with others.

The Assistive Technology Act (AT Act) of 2004 provides every state and territory with federal funding to support efforts to increase access to and acquisition of AT devices and services. It focuses on enhancing independence in education, employment, and daily living through device loans, demonstrations and reuse. Find your state’s AT Act Technical and Assistance Training (AT3) Center in their Program Directory.

Additionally, the National Joint Committee for the Communication Needs of Persons With Severe Disabilities (NJC), an independent, interdisciplinary committee established in 1986 by professional organizations like ASHA and TASH (then known as The Association for Persons with Severe Handicaps), developed the Communication Bill of Rights. It ensures the basic rights of people with disabilities to use communication to take part in managing their own lives. The full text is available here.