What is a Memory Cafe?

If you follow Pleasantries Adult Day Services on Facebook, you’ve seen us talk a lot about our Create a Better Day Memory Cafes. But what exactly is a Memory Cafe, you might wonder?

Memory Cafes are part of a growing trend that took shape more than two decades ago in Europe, serving as a welcoming space for all of those dealing with memory loss to gather and come together. Memory Cafes are hosted in safe, comfortable spaces, where caregivers, family members and their loved ones with Alzheimer’s Disease, cognitive impairment and other dementias can socialize, listen to music, play games and more.

Dealing with memory loss can be disheartening, both for the individual affected and their loved ones, but it’s important to remember that there are so many families going through the same thing as you. Memory Cafes serve to build this support and comradery. They provide a backdrop for mutual support, the exchange of stories and advice, and beneficial activities that are a break from your normal routines or stress. As people, we all thrive on connections and social interactions, no matter where we are cognitively, which is why Memory Cafes are frequently open to the community at large, and all ages. It’s important to remember that you’re not alone in your caregiving journey, and to interact and create valuable relationships with those in similar situations.  

At Pleasantries Adult Day Services, our focus is on creating a better day for everyone faced with memory loss. We’re here to support you and your family for all of your caregiving needs, whether your loved one attends our day program or not. Community support and outreach is a big part of what we do, and our monthly Create a Better Day Memory Cafes are open to everyone within our extended Greater Boston, Worcester and MetroWest community. Held on the fourth Sunday of each month, from 1-3pm, each Create a Better Day Memory Cafe boasts a different array of activities, plus entertainment, refreshments and snacks. No two Memory Cafes at Pleasantries are alike, and we invite you to join us and see for yourself! 

Our next Create a Better Day Memory Cafe is Sunday, August 25 from 1-3pm, with entertainment by guitarist and vocalist, Patrick Hoye. We host these at Pleasantries, outdoors when weather permits, at 195 Reservoir Street, Marlborough, MA. No RSVP is required, but for more information, please visit our website under offerings or contact Regina Wolf Fritz at (508) 481-0809. We hope to see you there! 

For more general information or to find a Memory Cafe near you, visit MemoryCafeDirectory.com.