What is one purpose of an AAC assessment?

One of the primary purposes of an AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) assessment is to identify if AAC intervention is beneficial for an individual. This involves evaluating the individual's communication needs, abilities, and challenges to ascertain whether AAC devices or strategies can enhance their ability to communicate effectively. The assessment process gathers crucial information about the person's current level of communication, their preferences, and any specific barriers they face in expressing themselves. By concluding whether AAC can be a useful tool, practitioners can make informed decisions about the appropriate interventions needed to support the individual's communication goals.

The other options don't align with the main goals of an AAC assessment: diagnosing speech disorders focuses on identifying speech pathologies rather than assessing communication support tools; determining therapy effectiveness evaluates ongoing treatment instead of AAC suitability; and evaluating fluency issues pertains to speech fluency rather than overall communication via AAC systems. Hence, recognizing the beneficial role of AAC during assessments is essential in ensuring individuals receive supportive communication methods tailored to their needs.