For the memory impaired, memory is like a stack of china; if you try to pull a plate from the middle, the whole thing comes crashing down. We need to continue our stories chronologically, one china plate at a time. 

For me, this is why it is important to give us time to collect what is left of our thoughts, and the time to find the words to tell you about them. It seems crucial to me that others resist the urge to give us a nudge to hurry us along as that will most likely make us stumble and lose our footing (our words). This is when our plates come crashing down. Today I spent some time with a very dear friend in hospital. He is only a few years older than me, and has significant and increasing cognitive impairment due to illness. It was a better day today for him than some others, and my highlighted words above, written earlier this year, have meant more to me than ever before as it was very obvious time and patience was all that was needed for him to respond to my conversation. Love is the other key ingredient in his care and our friendship. Without love or true affection, including love for your job when related to client care, it might not be possible to find the patience to take the time required to allow someone to collect their thoughts in order to respond.