Which AAC App Is Right For You?

If you’re brand new to AAC apps, we’ve put together this checklist to help you consider where to start. Explore these questions to guide you, as a primary communication partner, on narrowing down which AAC app meets your communicator’s needs. Your speech language pathologist (SLP) is also a key player in helping identify suitable AAC options. Invite them to join you in the selection process.

Language

• Does your communicator use one language or are they multilingual?
• Does the app support those languages?

Access

• Will your communicator be accessing, or controlling the app by touch, using their eyes, head tracking, or switch scanning? Does the app support that access method
• Is there a vocabulary size option available for accurate button selection?
• Would your communicator benefit from a vocabulary file that supports low vision? Does the app have those supports?

Vocabulary

• Does the app offer a vocabulary option that has enough words on the home screen, or in the file altogether, to be an effective communication tool for right now and for tomorrow as they increase language skills?
• Is the vocabulary organization backed by research? Does it prioritize core words? Core words are parts of speech such as pronouns, prepositions, verbs, etc. that make up 80% of words we communicate. Fringe vocabulary or nouns makes up the other 20%.
• Does your communicator understand the way the words/symbols are organized in the vocabulary? And are their supports for communication partners to learn so they can model vocabulary to their communicator?

Symbols

• Does the app offer the option to use different symbols on the buttons?
• Are you able to utilize the camera to take real images for button customization?
• Would a text- or spelling-based option be more appropriate than a symbol-based option?

Customization

• Are there enough options to personalize your vocabulary, such as names of important people?
• Does the app have high-quality voice options to represent your communicator?
• Is the app compatible with a custom voice that you make?

Support

• Does the app offer technical support and do you know where to find it?
• Does the app have resources to help you keep learning?

Answering these questions with your AAC team will help you know what to look for when reviewing AAC app options. They can help you determine must-have and nice-to-have features.

You may choose to trial one or more AAC apps before you find the just-right fit for your communicator. PRC-Saltillo offers several Discover apps to give you valuable time to experience the full app options and observe what works well. Starting something new can feel exciting and maybe a little overwhelming. Here’s some guidance on what to know before starting an AAC app trial.

Still not sure which app might be best to start with? Your PRC-Saltillo AAC Consultant is ready to help answer your questions and guide you from a clinical perspective.