How to Communicate with Nonverbal Adults: 7 Best Inclusion Practices for Creating Connection

Picture this: The room is filled with people, but it feels strangely quiet. Your loved one sits there, their face tense, their hands fidgeting. You watch as their eyes dart around, searching for a way to join in.

It’s like they’re standing on the other side of a glass wall—so close, yet completely cut off.

And you? You’re just trying to figure out how to break through, to pull them back into the world they once navigated so easily.

You’ve tried a thousand things—talking slower, using simpler words, filling the silence with whatever comes to mind. But nothing seems to help very much.

Every effort feels like it just widens the gap. And maybe, just maybe, there’s a little voice in your head asking, “Am I doing this all wrong?”

If this situation sounds familiar, it’s okay. You’re not alone in feeling this way. In fact, it’s more common than you probably think.

There are approximately two million adults in the United States who have lost their ability to speak for one reason or another. And for every one of them, there are multiple people just like you, who care about them and are trying to figure out how to best help them.

So, if you’re here, ready to try something new, to find the key to bridging that gap and make sure your loved one feels as included as they deserve to be, I have good news…

If you’re looking for a way—make that multiple ways—to communicate with someone who has lost their speech and help them to not feel so left out, you’re in the right place.

 

In this post, we’ll explore seven best inclusion practices—some low tech, some high tech—that will help you create real, meaningful connections with your loved one.

Ready? Let’s dive in.

Inclusion Matters

The problem you’re facing is that conversations that once flowed easily now feel like they’ve hit a brick wall. It’s like the words you need are just out of reach, somewhere on the other side of that wall.

You try to make it work—you ask questions, try to draw them out—but nothing seems to click. You end up talking around them instead of with them, and the silence that follows is almost painful.

It’s frustrating, isn’t it? You feel like you’re losing them, bit by bit, to this invisible barrier that seems impossible to break.

No matter how much you care, no matter how hard you try, there’s this nagging feeling that maybe you’re just not getting it right. It feels like you’re stuck in an awkward dance where no one knows the steps, and every attempt only makes it worse.

Meanwhile, you can see the toll it’s taking on them. The way they shrink back from conversations, avoid social gatherings, or seem to retreat into themselves more and more each day.

You can see from the pain in their eyes how much inclusion matters, how badly they want to stay connected, but what you’ve been trying just isn’t working.

So, what’s going on here?

The Root Cause of the Problem

It’s easy to think that the problem is just about finding the right words, but it runs much deeper than that.

It’s not just about saying the right thing or asking the right question. The real issue is a lack of understanding about what inclusion truly means.

Many people think inclusion is about being physically present—just showing up and trying to involve the other person. But that’s only scratching the surface. True inclusion is about making sure everyone, especially those who can’t speak, feels seen, heard, and valued.

So, why does this disconnect happen? One big reason is the lack of communication tools and strategies. Most of us aren’t taught how to communicate with nonverbal adults.

For example, there are the emotional and social barriers. When someone can’t speak, they often feel a mixture of frustration, shame, and anxiety. They might worry that they’re being a burden or that they’ll be misunderstood.

Over time, this can make them withdraw even more, creating a vicious cycle of silence and isolation.

In addition, most people don’t know about the assistive technologies available out there today—communication apps, speech-generating devices, eye trackers, etc. Most people don’t even know that these amazing tools exist, much less how to use them effectively.

Which leads to another problem: a lack of training for caregivers, family members, coworkers, and employers, who often don’t know how to use these tools or how to foster an environment where communication feels natural and inclusive. And without that knowledge, even the best intentions can fall flat.

But here’s the thing: it doesn’t have to be this way.

The Solution: 7 Best Inclusion Practices for People Who Cannot Speak

So, let’s talk about what we can do to turn this situation around. The key is to embrace inclusion practices that help break down these barriers and create real connections.

Here are seven of the best ways to make that happen:

1. Encourage Multiple Forms of Expression: Not all communication has to be spoken. Nonverbal adults can express themselves in many ways—writing, drawing, using gestures, or using digital tools. Encourage them to use whichever form feels most natural. For example, they might prefer typing out their thoughts on a text to speech app or drawing pictures to convey their emotions. The goal is to find what works for them and make it a regular part of your interactions.
2. Create an Inclusive Environment: Again, inclusion isn’t just about being physically present; it’s about being emotionally and socially engaged. Ask for their opinions. Invite them to participate in conversations. Make sure they have access to the tools they need, like speech apps or devices. When they feel like they’re genuinely part of the conversation, they’re more likely to engage and open up.
3. Establish Predictable Routines: Routines help reduce anxiety and create a sense of safety. For example, setting specific times for communication—like a regular check-in after dinner or a morning catch-up—can help them know when they’ll have the opportunity to express themselves. This can make communication feel less daunting and more like a natural part of their day.
4. Practice Active Listening: Show that you’re fully present when they communicate. This means not interrupting, giving them time to respond, and acknowledging their efforts. Active listening also involves paying attention to their body language, facial expressions, and gestures. If they’re using a device, wait patiently for their response and show interest in what they’re communicating. This simple act of respect can build trust and encourage more communication.
5. Maintain Eye Contact and Positive Body Language: Even without words, we can communicate a lot with our eyes, smiles, and gestures. Maintain eye contact, use a calm and inviting tone, and offer a smile or a nod to show you’re engaged. Positive body language can help them feel more comfortable and willing to communicate.
6. Use Assistive Technology: This is a real game-changer for many people who have lost their ability to speak. Communication apps like APP2Speak, speech-generating devices, and eye-tracking technology can help bridge the gap. For instance, APP2Speak can convert text to speech, allowing nonverbal adults to communicate their thoughts in real time. Companies like Control Bionics provide eye-tracking devices that let users type and speak using their eye movements, opening up a whole new world of possibilities. These technologies can be particularly helpful for those with progressive diseases who may find it harder to use their hands over time.
7. Educate Yourself and Others: Don’t assume you know what’s best—take the time to learn. Find out about the different communication tools and strategies available. Attend workshops, read books, attend webinars, ask for live or virtual demonstrations (like this one for APP2Speak), or join online communities where you can learn from others who have experience in this area. Share what you’ve learned with friends, family, and coworkers to create a more inclusive network of support.

Putting Assistive Technology into Practice

Now that we’ve covered some best practices, let’s talk about how to bring assistive technology into your daily life. It’s one thing to know what to do; it’s another to actually do it.

Here’s how to start:

Step 1: Assess Needs and Abilities

Before you jump into action, take a moment to assess the person’s specific needs and abilities. Do they prefer typing over speaking? Are they comfortable using a tablet or smartphone, or would a speech-generating device work better? Consider their comfort levels, strengths, and the tools that would best suit them.

Step 2: Invest in the Right Tools

Once you’ve identified their needs, explore the available tools. Look for devices and apps that integrate well with their abilities and preferences. For example, if they have limited hand movement, an eye-tracking device from Control Bionics paired with the APP2Speak app could be ideal. Research the options, read reviews, and consult with professionals if needed.

Step 3: Train and Practice

It’s crucial to learn how to use these tools effectively. Take time to practice—both you and the person you’re supporting. Familiarize yourselves with the device or app, try out different features, and encourage regular use. The more comfortable everyone is with the technology, the more natural and seamless communication will become.

Step 4: Incorporate Tech into Daily Routines

Make communication a part of everyday life. Whether it’s during meals, at work, or during social activities, find ways to naturally incorporate the chosen communication method into the flow. The goal is to make it feel less like a chore and more like a regular part of their day.

Step 5: Encourage Regular Feedback

Finally, make it a habit to check in with the person regularly. Ask how they’re feeling about the tools and practices you’re using. Is there something that could be improved? Are they finding it easier to express themselves, or is there still a barrier? Be open to feedback and ready to make adjustments as needed.

By implementing these steps, you’re not just finding a way to communicate—you’re creating a path back to connection, understanding, and inclusion.

Inclusion Works—But Only if You Work It

It’s understandable to feel overwhelmed by all of this. You’ve probably thought to yourself more than once, “How am I ever going to get this right?” And that’s okay.

Feeling lost, frustrated, or unsure is normal when you’re trying to navigate such a challenging situation. You care deeply about the person who’s lost their ability to speak, and you want so badly to reach them. But every attempt that doesn’t quite work can feel like a punch to the gut.

But here’s the truth: You’re doing better than you think. Every effort, every small step toward understanding and connection, is a win. The fact that you’re here, looking for ways to improve, means you’re already making a difference.

It’s not about perfection; it’s about progress. It’s about showing up with a willingness to learn, to adapt, and to keep trying. That’s what really matters.

Imagine the joy on their face when they realize they’re not alone—that you’re right there with them, breaking down that invisible wall, one brick at a time. Picture their shoulders relaxing, their eyes lighting up with recognition, their hands steadying as they begin to feel included, valued, and understood once again. That’s the power of what you’re doing here.

By embracing these practices, you’re not just finding new ways to communicate; you’re creating a lifeline. You’re reminding them that they still matter, that their voice—however it’s expressed—deserves to be heard. And that is everything.

So, keep pushing forward. Keep exploring, learning, and applying these tools. The path may be rocky, but every step you take is one step closer to a deeper, more meaningful connection. And that’s something worth fighting for.

You’ve got this. And they’re counting on you to make it happen.