"Why We Should Be Using Makaton with Adults with Communication difficulties"

When people hear the word Makaton, they often think of children, classrooms, or early years settings. While Makaton is widely used to support young learners, it’s equally important—and sometimes even more impactful—for adults with communication difficulties.

A recent phone call I had from someone wanting to book training went like this 'We learnt Makaton years ago as a setting, we have more new staff now, we learnt is as the older person we were supporting was deaf and used something less complicated than Makaton, he used to finger spell.' This conversation left me a bit baffled but it really did highlight that there is still a lot of confusion or misunderstanding about supporting people using Makaton and when other options might be more suited, it highlights the importance of meeting the communication and understanding needs of the individual and ensuring the correct training is in place.

Communication is more than words. It’s connection, independence, and autonomy. For adults who struggle with speech, memory, or understanding, Makaton can make daily life less frustrating and far more empowering. Here’s why it matters.

1. Promotes Independence and Autonomy

Adults with communication difficulties often rely heavily on others to interpret their needs and wishes. Makaton offers a visual and accessible way to express choices—whether that’s what to eat, how they’re feeling, or what activity they’d like to do. This independence helps reduce reliance on carers or family members and builds confidence.

2. Reduces Frustration and Anxiety

Imagine not being able to make yourself understood. The frustration and anxiety that builds from this can lead to stress, isolation, or frustration. Makaton provides a bridge, offering clear and consistent tools for expression. It gives adults another way to be heard.

3. Strengthens Relationships

When staff, families, and peers use Makaton, it creates stronger, more inclusive relationships. A shared communication tool, such as Makaton, breaks down barriers, builds trust, and allows for richer conversations—even if those conversations are through whole or partly through signs or symbols.

4. Supports Understanding

Makaton isn’t just about expressing yourself—it’s also about comprehension. Many adults find it easier to process visual cues alongside spoken language. Using Makaton signs and symbols alongside speech makes instructions clearer and reduces misunderstandings.

5. It’s Lifelong, Not Just for Children

Communication needs don’t disappear at adulthood. In fact, they often become more complex as adults navigate healthcare, employment, housing, and social life. Makaton can be a lifelong communication tool, supporting people in every setting—from home life to community activities and professional environments.

6. Creates Inclusive Communities

Using Makaton with adults encourages wider society to embrace inclusive communication. From workplaces to healthcare providers, the more people who learn and use Makaton, the more accessible and welcoming our communities become.

Final Thought

Makaton isn’t limited to early years—it’s a powerful, flexible system that gives adults with communication difficulties a stronger voice. By using it, we not only empower individuals, but we also create a culture of inclusion where everyone can participate fully in life. When originally created, it was done so to support adults in the first instance.

Further Reading:

• The Makaton Charity (2024). What is Makaton? makaton.org

• Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT). Supporting Adults with Communication Needs. rcslt.org

• NHS (2024). Aphasia and Communication Aids. nhs.uk/conditions/aphasia

• Communication Matters (2024). What is AAC? communicationmatters.org.uk

• Scope (2024). Inclusive Communication. scope.org.uk

If you’d like to learn Makaton and make your workplace, service, or community more inclusive, why not join one of our upcoming training sessions? Together, we can make communication accessible for all.

www.alimakatontutor.com or drop me an email: alimakatontutor.com

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