What is the purpose of voice banking for people with ALS?

• A. Voice banking and early AAC assessment
• B. To preserve a voice through digital recording
• C. To increase vocal effort
• D. To avoid AAC

Answer: (A)

Voice banking is about planning for communication as ALS progresses by recording your natural voice while you can still speak clearly. The goal is to preserve that voice so it can be used later with a speech-generating device, giving you a synthesized voice that sounds like you. Doing this early alongside an AAC assessment ensures you pick the right device, access method, and voice settings before speech declines, so the transition is smoother. It supports continuity of identity in how you sound and communicates, and it gives clinicians time to tailor pronunciation and intonation. It’s not about increasing vocal effort or avoiding AAC; it’s about having a preserved voice and a prepared plan for future communication.