[Jimbee (OP)]

Why does everyone seem to always hold onto their ability to use language, even when there is brain damage? Most developmentally disabled people can talk. In fact the only for of brain damage that I can think of that might limit your language skills is a stroke. Is there some evolutionary reason for this?

I know the way we acquire and use language is complex and interesting. And there is only a small window of time when most people can become fluent in a language.

[evan_au]

Some forms of dementia render people unable to speak (or do other complex functions).

In these cases, the brain fails before the body.