Who Does What?

Who is part of the AAC decision-making team?

• Person needing AAC. They should have as much input as possible in decision making by indicating their needs, goals, and interests.
• Family & Friends. They are the long term support and advocacy for the person needing AAC. They often have deep insights into historical communication needs and attempts.
• Caregivers & Support Personnel. They are the current support system for the person needing AAC. They often assist with communication when there is a misinterpretation. They may also have insights into the vocabulary needs and interests of the person.
• Speech/Language Pathologists (SLPs) & Communication Specialists. These are professionals that specialize in the evaluation and treatment of communication disorders.
• AC Specialists. These are SLPs with additional expertise and training in AAC. They can assist the team in selecting and maintaining appropriate AAC systems
• Occupational & Physical Therapists and Assistive Technology Specialists. These professionals can help determine how a person with physical difficulties can access an AAC system. They identify the barriers, and maximize opportunities for successful AAC use
• Others. Any others that have knowledge of the person may be included to provide insights:
  • ASL Interpreters
  • Social Workers
  • Teachers
  • Job Coaches

 Who typically leads the AAC decision-making team?

• SLPs and AAC Specialists. They gather information from the AAC decision-making team (see above) for the AAC assessment, make AAC recommendations, and provide treatment.
• Part of their responsibility may be to identify funding sources for AAC

How can decision-making about AAC have the full involvement of team members?

• Sharing a process for making AAC decisions rather than attempting to take the decision out of their hands. For example, you may want to encourage them to start by identifying what they want the AAC tool to do. Help them clarify what they want, with your guidance, and then encourage them to evaluate each option against their goals.
• Gathering and sharing information from all members of the team
• Combining knowledge and expertise through the process of planning
• Carefully made decisions will go a long way toward making implementation of any AAC system successful. (Communication Assistance for Young Adults www.cayabc.org)