Rethinking AAC Awareness Month

Every October, AAC Awareness Month reminds us of something profound: communication is a basic human right. Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices and apps have opened doors for people who have lost their ability to speak—due to a stroke, brain injury, ALS, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, or other conditions.

But even with all this progress, a problem persists. Too many people are handed expensive, complicated “big company” devices that are supposed to give them a voice… yet end up collecting dust in a closet.

 

As a Speech-Language Pathologist with many years of experience, I’ve seen this happen far too often.

While large companies dominate the AAC market, bigger isn’t always better. Real communication depends on accessibility, ease of use, and personal connection—values at the heart of APP2Speak, an AAC app designed with users in mind.

The Problem with the “Big Company” AAC Devices for Adults

Sadly, many speech language pathologists, assistive technology specialists, and rehabilitation teams rely on the same “cookie-cutter” process for AAC recommendations. They prescribe one of the big-name, high-tech speech-generating devices because:

• It’s what they’ve been trained to use and recommend.
• The cost of these AAC devices is covered by insurance.
• It feels like the “safe” choice.

Unfortunately, this approach can lead to serious problems. Many users and families find these devices to be:

• Too heavy or bulky to carry around
• Too complicated to learn or customize
• Too overwhelming to integrate into everyday life

And when that happens, these expensive devices—sometimes costing thousands of dollars—get pushed aside, forgotten and unused.

I hear from people every month who have been through this exact experience. They or their loved ones have a big company AAC device sitting in a closet, unused, because it’s simply not user-friendly.

That’s not communication, it’s frustration.

Real Stories, Real People: When “Big Company” Devices Fail

I believe that every person deserves to be heard. The following stories from people I’ve worked with show what can happen when the system doesn’t deliver—and how APP2Speak made all the difference.

Ken’s Story: The Parkinson’s Veteran Who Found Freedom Again

Ken, a veteran from Florida living with Parkinson’s disease, was evaluated by the VA and provided with a large, expensive AAC device. The VA covered the cost, but the device itself became a burden.

Ken’s wife, Alicia, told me it was far too heavy for him to carry and neither of them understood how to use it effectively. After several years of frustration, Ken’s AAC device ended up stored away, unused.

When they learned about APP2Speak, Ken and Alicia decided to try the free demonstration and trial. Within days, they purchased the app. They found it to be portable and simple to use, and they loved that it worked on a device they already owned.

For the first time in years, Ken had a way to communicate independently—and comfortably.

Chris’s Story: Making Communication Simple for MS

Chris, from Arizona, has multiple sclerosis (MS). She and her husband, Gerry, worked with an assistive technology specialist who recommended a speech-generating device. Insurance covered it, but it quickly became clear that the device didn’t fit Chris’s needs.

The navigation was confusing. Gerry found it nearly impossible to customize, and Chris struggled to locate the words and phrases she wanted. The system that was supposed to help her communicate instead just created more frustration and stress.

Then they found APP2Speak. After trying it out, they both felt immediate relief.

Chris could easily find what she wanted to say. Gerry could personalize it in minutes. It was intuitive, user-friendly, and empowering. For them, simple technology made all the difference.

Aden’s Story: Growing Up with AAC, Growing into Independence

Aden, a 19-year-old on the autism spectrum, had used a speech-generating device in school. It worked well enough there—but when he graduated, he realized that the device no longer suited his lifestyle.

It was bulky, noticeable, and not something he wanted to carry around in public or at work.

Aden wanted something discreet and portable, something that reflected his independence as a young adult. With APP2Speak, he found it. He could use it on his iPhone or iPad, customize it with his own photos, and express himself in ways that felt natural.

The first thing he did after downloading the app was to create a custom page of pictures of his friends to use in conversation.

That’s the power of personal connection—and it’s what AAC should always provide.

The Hidden Cost of “Free” Devices

For many families, a “free” device provided through insurance or school seems like a gift. But in reality, it often comes with hidden costs.

When a device is too heavy, too confusing, or too impersonal, it ends up unused. And when that happens, the real cost is emotional and social:

• Missed conversations
• Feelings of frustration or isolation
• Lost opportunities for independence

The best AAC tool isn’t necessarily the most expensive one—it’s the one someone actually uses.

Communication isn’t about fancy features. It’s about connection, confidence, and being heard.

Why APP2Speak Is Different

APP2Speak was created with one goal: to make communication accessible and personal for adults who have lost their ability to speak.

Here’s how it stands apart from the “big company” alternatives:

• Affordable: A one-time purchase—no insurance battles, no hidden fees.
• Simple and intuitive: Designed by a speech-language pathologist who understands real-world communication needs.
• Portable: Works on iPhones and iPads–devices you likely already use.
• Customizable: Add your own photos, names, and phrases in minutes.
• Human-centered: Built for independence, dignity, and everyday living.

You can also try a free demonstration or 14-day trial before purchasing—so you’ll know it’s the right fit for you or your loved one.

This AAC Awareness Month, Advocate for the Right Fit

AAC Awareness Month is about more than spreading awareness—it’s about ensuring that every person who needs a voice can find one that truly fits their life.

• Professionals: Get out of your comfort zone, look beyond the “big name” devices you’re used to recommending, and think about usability, not just funding.
• Caregivers: If the current solution isn’t working, don’t be afraid to explore alternatives. APP2Speak offers a free trial, so all it costs you is a few minutes of your time to explore another option.
• Individual Users: Remember that your voice, your comfort, and your independence should always come first. Don’t settle for a situation that doesn’t fit the lifestyle you want to live.

True awareness means ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to communicate in a way that feels natural, personal, and empowering.

Communication isn’t about brand names—it’s about being heard. And that’s something every person deserves.

If you or someone you love is struggling with an AAC device that just doesn’t work, reach out to us on our Contact page to learn more or start a free trial today.

This AAC Awareness Month, let’s work together to make communication accessible, practical, and personal for everyone.