exchange of thoughts, dialogue, chat
Actual conversation and Parkinson's can be tricky. As voice muscles atrophy, articulation becomes a shadow of what it was. Conversation can be very uncomfortable for those who aren't understanding of the situation. With PD there is a slow transition from being fully engaged in the give and take of conversation, to waiting to be asked a question and then on to a quiet partner barely responding. It's one of those things that swings wildly from easy to uncomfortable to impossible.
We found ourselves in a place of frustration, entwined with muscles, motivation and volume. Since conversations do not start themselves we needed to rethink dinner time. We now read through our dinner hour finding it far more relaxing.
Here you go... a sampling.
- What is your biggest challenge right now?
- Describe your family in five words.
- If you could spend the day with anyone in the world (past or present) who would it be?
- What is your first memory?
- What is your favorite book right now and why?
- What is your biggest fear?
- What was the high point and the low point of your day today?
- What are three things you are grateful for?
- Is there a tradition or special something that you feel captures what's unique about your family?
- If you could fix or change one thing in the world what would it be?
- Describe something you have done lately that is out of character for you.
One thing I have learned in social settings is to ask a question that directs the other person(s) to talk about themselves. Someone will have to take the initiative to take the first step, to ask a question. Even between a couple who find it simpler not to talk, small conversations ignite the brain, a positive for any aging person or one with PD.
I am excited about the 'starters'. We have a safe dinner of chew, swallow and read then move to a lovely 'dessert' of conversation. What could be better?