What exactly is a Memory Café?

Many people have been to a café, and most are relatively familiar with the term memory – but have you heard of a memory café? Far from a restaurant that makes you memorize a long list of menu items, memory cafés are primarily social gatherings where individuals with memory impairment and their caregivers can join together in a safe, supportive environment, share conversation over a cup of coffee, or participate in fun, simple activities with the group. It’s an opportunity to meet with others for support, companionship, and fun!

What will we do at a Memory Café?

The program provides structured activities to promote reminiscence, cognition, and engagement. There is also time to share in conversation and get to know others in a safe and supportive environment.

Some examples of activities from past memory cafes are: flower arranging, making bird feeders, creating our own herb gardens, themed trivia activities, indoor golf, virtual museum tours, Friendsgiving celebrations and more!

Who should attend?

Anyone who is concerned about their memory is welcome to attend. Memory cafés can be great groups for both those with Mild Cognitive Impairment, a diagnosis of dementia, or memory impairment, as well as the friends and family members of these individuals. The cafés are fun for everyone! No formal assessment or referral is needed.

While a Memory Cafe is beneficial for those living with dementia, it is also beneficial for their care partners as well. It is not a place to “drop off” your loved one for a while, but a way to enjoy activities with them as a break from the normal routine that you share.

Why should I go?

For many, the diagnosis of dementia can be alienating. Families don’t know how to react, friends can pull away. It becomes harder to make those standing lunch dates as skills decline and doctor’s visits increase. Memory cafes provide an opportunity for normalcy. People can come together, meet new people, and enjoy each other’s company. They can have fun and laugh. Activities provide an outlet for couples to enjoy each other’s company and meet new friends in the process. Additional benefits come down the road as these new friends can be turned to for support and resources. Memory cafes allow people to remain socially engaged with others traveling the same journey.

Want to come?

Check out our list of memory café offerings! Insight and our community partners offer multiple FREE memory cafes each month!