Living With ALS

Communication

Speech and movement changes do not have to mean losing the ability to communicate. Start early with a speech-language pathologist and an AAC assessment.

Start with the problem

What problem are you trying to solve?

This question box finds a relevant ALS Hub page. It does not diagnose or provide medical advice.

Speech changes

Speech-language pathology can help evaluate speech changes, energy, intelligibility, and communication goals. Planning early can make it easier to preserve a person’s voice and preferred ways of communicating.

Sources: Augmentative and alternative communication

Low-tech communication

  • communication boards
  • alphabet boards
  • picture boards
  • yes/no cards
  • topic boards
  • partner-assisted scanning boards

Sources: Communication boards · Augmentative and alternative communication

Voice banking and message banking

Voice banking records a person’s natural voice while speech remains sufficiently clear so a personalized synthetic voice may potentially be created later. Message banking can preserve recorded words, phrases, expressions, laughs, and personal messages.

Sources: Augmentative and alternative communication

Technology and AAC

  • voice amplification
  • smartphone or tablet text-to-speech
  • computer text-to-speech
  • dedicated speech-generating devices
  • tablet-based AAC
  • switch scanning
  • head tracking
  • eye-gaze communication
  • computer access
  • phone access
  • smart-home control
  • AAC mounts

Sources: Augmentative and alternative communication · AAC for people with ALS

Eye gaze and access methods

Eye-tracking communication devices, eye-controlled computers, head tracking, button switches, proximity switches, pressure switches, scanning systems, and sip-and-puff access may help different people. A qualified speech-language pathologist and assistive-technology team should guide assessment and setup.

View representative eye-gaze information

Sources: Augmentative and alternative communication · TD I-Series

Funding and access

AAC funding and access can involve clinical assessment, documentation, insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, equipment suppliers, or loan programs. The care team and supplier can help identify the pathway that applies to the individual.

Sources: Augmentative and alternative communication

Sources & Further Reading

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This information is for education and does not replace individualized medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or emergency care.

Last reviewed: 09-30-2026

Medical information should be reviewed periodically as guidance, benefits, and equipment options change.