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I basically said that I don't understand a word she has said.  But this does not stop her, continuing complete garbage.  There are gaps where I am meant to say something, which I do.

The only explanation is that, she is not listening to the words.  I think that I must be in a position where she cannot hear the words themselves, and so she imagines what I say.  And continues on.

So the rule must be absolutely make sure you are in a position where she will hear your words.  I am not quite sure how she managed at the dining room table, but I was much closer to her left ear.  I was speaking at her right ear in the corridor.

So we have established a few things here.  For me the main one is that she is not phased by not understanding what you have said,  making the assumption that it will not alter her progress with talking.

It is pretty unsociable, but she does not care.   That she needs no confirmation of your enjoyment of the conversation is a serious problem, and is difficult to understand.  A dictator spouting rubbish.  That is about it.  

A frequent check, is called for.  Just say "I cannot understand you, can you hear me?".

If she can hear you,  then I would just leave.

If she cannot, then insist on moving position, and repeat the test.

I could imagine that she was a pretty dictatorial manager at Nat West.  But that is not necessarily bad.  Carrying that into retirement is a disaster for herself, which she is obviously now not aware of.

Hope the analysis helps someone

M