Despite their dementia.

I have learned the language of my dementia-riddled friend, Ron. That’s how we conversed tonight. For an hour. Virtually non-stop.  In gobbledygook.  The exchange did wonders for Ron. For me, too. Because I had reached Ron. By returning his gobbledygook with my gobbledygook.  Ron sensed that I understood what he was saying. Though I didn't grasp everything. But that wasn't necessary. For Ron to feel that he was truly being heard.  Because I responded to everything he had to say. I emitted good vibes. Not only with gobbledygook. But by making eye contact. Using hand and arm gestures. And touch. So many, many ways to communicate. With Ron. And others. Despite their dementia. –Jim Broede