In PACE, the patient has free choice as to which communicative channels (modalities) they may use to convey new information. Which statement best describes this principle?

• A. The patient has free choice as to which communicative channels (modalities) they may use to convey new information.
• B. The patient must use spoken language only.
• C. The clinician selects the channels for the patient.
• D. Information must be conveyed in writing.

Answer: (A)

In PACE, communication is a joint, flexible process where the person with aphasia can choose any way to express new information—speech, gestures, writing, drawing, or aided communication—and the clinician mirrors or supports using the same or another modality. This free choice keeps the exchange natural and equal, focusing on the message rather than rigidly on how it’s produced. It also reduces pressure on the person to produce speech and invites use of strengths across different channels, making interaction functional and meaningful. Restricting to only spoken language, letting the clinician choose the channels, or requiring writing would undermine that flexible, inclusive approach.