The director of care at Village Green isn't sure why the two residents took to each other but whatever the reason, it has had a positive impact on both of their lives.

It started when the younger of the two residents, James, began keeping an eye out for the older man, Norm, says Jackie Maxwell.

When Norm began to wander throughout the home, James led him to the dining room.

"He would just basically talk to him and keep him interested," says Jackie. Norm is experiencing memory loss and it's challenging to engage him in conversation for long, she notes. "He's bonded to him. (James) has shown an interest in him and (Norm's) responding." As well, James has also encouraged the man to eat his meals.

Not only is Norm benefiting from the one-to-one relationship, Jackie says James' disposition has improved. She notes they communicate in their own unique language with each other.

"I don't know what it is…but there's a connection."

*James and Norm are not their real names.