5. Respect Their Intelligence
When a person is described as intelligent, the word “articulate” is often used. Traditionally, there has often been a connection expressed between speech and intelligence, but of course, this is not always accurate.
A highly intelligent person, for instance, can have dysphasia and be unable to speak regularly. With the loss of speaking ability comes the feeling of powerlessness but this does not mean that the person is not thinking about the thoughts she always has and isn’t processing information efficiently.
Always keep in mind that the person who is speaking may have a complex, fascinating idea that they want to express but can’t. It is like fitting something large into a small container, and they have to keep pushing to get the ideas across.
Make it clear from your conversation with them that you respect their intelligence, despite the difficulties with communication. If someone with dysphasia feels respected, the speech will come easier.