A Memory Café

A Memory Café is a safe space for you and your loved one living with dementia to find company, enjoy fun activities and create memories. Come enjoy delicious food, engaging activities, and a welcoming atmosphere. Let’s come together to support each other and make new memories. We can’t wait to see you there!

What is a Memory Café?

Originating in the Netherlands in the late 1990s in an effort to fight the isolation and stigma that dementia creates, memory cafes quickly spread to the British Isles and Australia. By 2008, memory cafés reached the United States, the first being established in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and the 2nd right here in Washington State! As of 2022, there are over 400 memory cafés nationwide.

Memory cafés are for individuals with memory impairment and their care partners to gather in a safe and supportive environment.  They provide a place for conversation over a cup of coffee, a place to participate in simple but fun activities, and to build companionships and support. Memory cafés can host speakers, provide music or fun activities for those living with dementia and their care partners. There can be educational components to the cafés, creative movement, and art. Memory cafés are an opportunity for someone living with dementia and their caregivers to be around those who understand them, those who will provide support and encouragement. Those that have participated state that they leave with a sense of belonging.

Why should you attend?

Unfortunately, for many, the diagnosis of dementia can be isolating for both the individual and their care partners. A diagnosis of dementia can make it difficult for an individual and their care partner to do normal activities, like meeting friends for lunch. Memory cafés can bring back a sense of normalcy; allowing the person living with dementia and their care partner to not only enjoy each other’s company but connect with others too.

HOPE Dementia Support and The Area Agency on Aging & Disabilities of Southwest Washington will host a Monthly Memory Cafe on the 4th Tuesday of the month at the Cameo Cafe by Green Meadows. Any PLWD and their care partner is welcome to attend. Enjoy great food, good conversation and lots of laughter!

Interested in this program? Contact Chasity Charette at 360-735-5753 or email at alwayshopeinfo@gmail.com.