how do typical ACC’s work?
I want to use something where I don’t have to verbally speak for when I’m in public due to vocal dysphoria and social anxiety but I don’t know where to start. also I’m honestly very nervous about people judging me but I’m not trying to vent so I’ll leave it at that 😭
about AACs!
so there are three types of aac all named based on what kind of tech they use, no tech, low tech, and high tech.
no tech AAC;
this type of aac kind of depends on someone understanding that you are not talking at the moment. you can point at things with your hands and eyes, make grunting or other noises, as well as use sign language if the person you are talking to knows sign language. i dont know sign language but i have a set of premade signs i use with my partner when i dont have my aac with me which are just basic things like “i need to go now” “i need to go soon” “i need my headphones” “i need to smoke” “i need a break” etc.
pros- low effort
cons- miscommunications happen easily, i also just tend to give up on communication and shut down but i think thats just a me thing lol.
low tech AAC;
letterboards;
these are boards with letters you point at to spell out words, this can take a long time and people can get frustrated with how long its taking to communicate.
pros- you can say literally anything
cons- time consuming
communication cards;
these are stacks of cards with words and phrases on them, usually held together by a clip. these are fully customizable and usually made from scratch.
pros- i like that they are personalized
cons- you only have premade phrases, takes a while to make them
high tech AAC;
AAC apps;
a device like a phone or tablet with an AAC app. you can download many apps and customize most of them with symbols and custom words.
pros- fully customizable
cons- some apps need wifi, some apps cost money, takes a while to set it up to your liking
premade AAC device;
these are devices made soley for the purpose of AAC, i dont know much about them so i wont comment much.
pros- you will have a set AAC device and wont have to use your personal phone or tablet.
cons- usually expensive as they are a disability aid
eyegaze AAC;
i again do not know much about this type of AAC but from what i am aware, it is a device you use by looking at what you want to say for a certain period of time and then the device will say it.
pros- good for people with poor motor functions
cons- again these are expensive disability aids
PLEASE CORRECT ME IF I AN WRONG ABOUT ANYTHING AND I WILL UPDATE THE POST
if you are looking to start using AAC due to social anxiety i would personally recommend trying out a set of communication cards. i personally have anxiety about talking in public and this includes the voice on my high tech AAC app, so i use comm cards when in public and my app when i am with my partner or friends. their also great if you love arts and crafts!!
a simple set of a couple needs and basic phrases for example;
yes
no
ask me yes or no questions please
i need the washroom
i need to leave
i need quiet
i am overstimulated
what is your name
i have social anxiety and cannot speak at the moment
i am not being rude by not talking
etc