AAC for Adults
Specialized AAC services for adults with acquired, lifelong, or progressive communication needs.
Cadence AAC provides individualized assessment, treatment, and consultation to help adults find, adapt, and use communication systems that support meaningful participation in everyday life.
We work with adults throughout California through virtual services, with select in-person appointments in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Acquired Communication Needs
Stroke, traumatic brain injury, and other acquired neurological conditions can cause aphasia, motor speech difficulties, and changes in cognition that affect everyday communication.
We help adults explore AAC options that build on their existing abilities and support communication in everyday life. Assessment and intervention may include communication boards, personalized AAC displays, speech-generating devices, and strategies for communicating with family members and other partners.
Our approach considers language and cognitive abilities, motor and visual access, and individual communication goals. We can also collaborate with existing rehabilitation teams to integrate AAC into ongoing care.
Lifelong Communication Needs
For adults with cerebral palsy, developmental disabilities, and other lifelong conditions, communication needs may evolve as abilities, environments, and support teams change.
We help individuals establish, maintain, and adapt AAC systems to support communication across adult life. This may include improving accessibility, customizing vocabulary and displays, and addressing barriers to communication at home, at work, or in the community.
We also support the transition from school-based AAC services to adult programs, collaborating with individuals, families, and support teams to maintain communication access and help new communication partners use existing systems effectively.
Progressive Communication Needs
ALS, Parkinson's disease, primary progressive aphasia, and other neurological conditions can affect speech, language, and communication abilities over time.
We help adults plan for changing communication needs, introducing AAC strategies and technologies that support communication now while anticipating future changes. This may include personalized communication systems, speech-generating devices, alternative access methods, and backup communication strategies.
Our approach emphasizes proactive planning, flexibility, and collaboration with individuals, families, and medical teams to maintain communication as abilities and needs evolve.
How We Can Help
AAC Evaluation & System Selection
Comprehensive assessment of communication needs, language abilities, access methods, and potential AAC systems. We help individuals explore options, trial devices, and identify solutions that fit their communication goals and daily lives.
AAC Treatment & Implementation
Individualized support to develop communication skills, personalize vocabulary and displays, and integrate AAC into everyday activities and interactions.
AAC System Review & Customization
Consultation to improve existing communication systems, including vocabulary organization, device settings, accessibility, and changes in communication needs.
Family, Caregiver & Team Coaching
Practical training and collaboration with families, caregivers, therapists, and support staff to help AAC systems work effectively across environments.
Virtual AAC Services Throughout California
Many AAC services can be provided remotely, including consultation, communication system review, device programming, and coaching for family members and support teams.
Virtual services allow us to work with adults throughout California, including individuals who may not have access to a local AAC specialist. Some assessments and device trials require hands-on support or specialized equipment, and we can help determine whether virtual services are appropriate for your needs.
Getting Started
Whether you are exploring AAC for the first time or need support with an existing communication system, we can help you identify an appropriate starting point.
Schedule a free 15-minute introductory call or book an initial clinical consultation.
Cadence AAC is a private-pay practice. Individuals with Medicare should contact us before scheduling to confirm service eligibility.