What Research Says About Speech Devices (AAC)

Empowering Communication Through Technology

At Marigold Speech, we believe everyone deserves a voice—no matter how that voice sounds. For many individuals, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) opens the door to meaningful connection, learning, and independence. But what does the research say about these tools?

Here’s what the experts—and our experience—confirm: AAC works. And for many, it’s life-changing.

What Is AAC?

AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication. These tools support or replace spoken language and come in a variety of forms:

• High-tech: Speech-generating devices (SGDs), tablet-based apps (like TouchChat or LAMP)

• Low-tech: Picture exchange systems, communication boards, and core word books

AAC is for individuals who are non-speaking, minimally verbal, late talkers, or those with unreliable verbal speech. It empowers users to express themselves clearly and consistently.

AAC Isn’t Just for Autism

While often associated with autism, AAC is not limited to any single diagnosis—or even a diagnosis at all. A person does not need a formal label to benefit from AAC.

AAC supports communication for individuals with:

• Cerebral palsy

• Down syndrome

• Childhood apraxia of speech (CAS)

• Genetic or developmental conditions

• Developmental delay

• Stroke or traumatic brain injury (TBI)

• ALS, Parkinson’s, or other neurodegenerative disorders

AAC is customizable to each user’s strengths and needs, across all ages and conditions.

There Are No Prerequisite Skills for AAC Use

A common myth is that children need to reach certain “readiness” milestones before receiving AAC, such as understanding symbols, engaging socially, or demonstrating cognitive ability. This is false.

There are NO prerequisite skills for AAC use—not cognitive ability, age, attention, engagement, or symbolic understanding (Romski & Sevcik, 2005). Waiting for a child to “prove” readiness only delays communication access and development.

Early AAC Use Leads to Better Outcomes

AAC doesn’t just fill a gap—it builds skills. Implementing AAC early:

• Maximizes potential

• Optimizes development

• Positively influences language, literacy, communication, and cognition

  
  

  (Davidoff, 2023)

Children as young as 12 months can benefit from AAC exposure. Just like walking and talking, communication grows with experience and support. The earlier we provide access, the greater the opportunities for growth.

AAC Does Not Hinder Speech—It Helps It

One of the most damaging myths is that AAC use will prevent or delay spoken language. Research strongly contradicts this.

AAC use has been shown to:

• Improve verbal speech output

• Reduce frustration and behavior challenges

• Support vocabulary growth and social participation

  
  

  (Walters, Sevcik, & Romski, 2021)

When communication becomes easier, spoken language often becomes stronger—not weaker.

AAC Isn’t Just for Full-Time Use

AAC also benefits individuals with part-time or intermittent speech. This includes those with:

• Inconsistent verbal output

• Speech that’s difficult to understand

• Speech that’s unreliable under stress or fatigue

These individuals may not need AAC 24/7—but they benefit from having it available when it counts (Koerner, Glaser, & Kropkowski, 2023). Whether someone uses AAC all the time or just during key moments, it can be a powerful support.

AAC for Adults

AAC is also a lifeline for adults navigating new or changing communication needs due to stroke, ALS, Parkinson’s disease, or other conditions. It helps adults:

• Maintain independence

• Express emotions, needs, and preferences

• Stay socially connected

Speech changes shouldn’t mean silence. AAC ensures adults continue to have a voice—literally and figuratively.

How We Support AAC at Marigold Speech

Our licensed speech-language pathologists provide:

• Comprehensive AAC evaluations and trials

• Personalized communication plans

• Device setup and training for families, caregivers, and teams

• Ongoing therapy and tech support

• Assistance with funding and insurance approvals

We provide in-clinic and home-based AAC services across Rock, Walworth, Kenosha, and Racine counties.

Let’s Find the Right Words—Together

AAC isn’t about replacing someone’s voice—it’s about unlocking it. When individuals are given access to communication, they gain access to relationships, learning, and independence.

📞 Ready to explore AAC? Contact us today to schedule a consultation or device trial:

608-728-7774 | www.marigoldspeech.com

References:

• Romski, M., & Sevcik, R. (2005). Augmentative communication and early intervention: Myths and realities. Infants & Young Children, 18, 174–185.

• Davidoff, B. (2023). AAC With Energy – Earlier. ASHA Leader. https://leader.pubs.asha.org/doi/10.1044//leader.FTR2.22012017.48

• Walters, C., Sevcik, R., & Romski, M. (2021). Spoken Vocabulary Outcomes of Toddlers With Developmental Delay After Parent-Implemented Augmented Language Intervention. AJSLP, 30, 1023–1037. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33789437/

• Koerner, S., Glaser, S., & Kropkowski, K. (2023). Perspectives of Part-Time AAC Use in Adults and Implications for Pediatric Service Delivery. Perspectives of the ASHA SIGs. https://doi.org/10.1044/2023_persp-22-00200