By Danielle Thai
ADAW

The 2012 World Alzheimer’s Report found that negative perceptions regarding dementia may lead to the isolation of people with dementia and their caregivers. However, the report said, “people with dementia and their family members will benefit from continuing to engage in as many activities as they can.” One way organizations around the world have addressed this issue is to offer Memory Cafés.

A Memory Café is an informal gathering place of socialization, support and creative enrichment. Cafés enable persons with memory loss to share fun, laughter and enjoyable activities with family members and friends in a setting free from awkwardness and stigma. The Alzheimer’s & Dementia Alliance of Wisconsin (ADAW) currently facilitates seven Memory Cafés, including a new Northside café offered in conjunction with the North/Eastside Senior Coalition (NESCO). Cultural Diversity Specialist Pam Bracey and Case Manager Kate Shenker, who are the NESCO co-facilitators, work with ADAW staff to offer the Memory Café at the Warner Park Community Recreation Center on the third Monday of each month from 1‒3 pm.

The concept is simple. The goal of the Memory Café is to provide a relaxed environment in which persons with mild cognitive impairment and their family members can enjoy the company of others facing similar challenges and learn, laugh and visit together. One Memory Café participant stated, “My husband and I thought the Memory Café was wonderful. We don’t socialize much anymore and it was great seeing him happy and laughing with others. Opportunities like this make life so much better.”

Activities are chosen, and sometimes led, by participants depending on their interests. Examples include creative projects, games, guest presenters, storytelling and simply sharing among friends. For more information about local Memory Cafes, contact the ADAW at 232-3400.