My mom started a low dose of Depakote on top of a medium dose Lexapro and Remeron. She had been on the latter two but really declined in mobility and speaking ability after the Depakote started. She's now in a wheelchair which is safer (less fall risk) but it is so hard to see the speech decline. All of it was happening before Depakote, but it seems to have accelerated it. At any rate, the medicine is really helping her cope better, but would like to hear how long others have cared for their loved ones after speech is gone or nearly gone. Thanks for sharing your journey.
Her speech swings widely, from a few fluent words to nothing at all. It's very discouraging, both for her and for us. But it doesn't seem to be a predictor of ANYTHING at all.
kidding .. my aunt doesnt speak much any more ( 92 yrs old ) . and its increasingly difficult to have a meaningful visit with her ..