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News about community support, memory cafes, churches or any other welcoming, dementia-friendly centre.

Canada: Memory Cafes Take the Stigma Away

Canada: Memory Cafes Take the Stigma Away

by SUSAN GRIMBLY
Managing Editor

And foster socialization.

Welcome to a cafe-style environment geared towards people diagnosed with early Alzheimer’s disease and/or related dementias, their care partners as well as those who worry about memory problems. The cafes provide a friendly atmosphere where people can socialize and share experiences over a cup of coffee or tea and refreshments.

The “café environment” idea was pioneered by Dr. Bére Miesen, a Dutch clinical psychologist in 1997, with his key message:

“Do not hide away—come and participate with us, in this safe [AC] space, and in society and life as much as you can. You did not ask to get dementia, and it could happen to any of us. Here we understand—and want to talk about it and learn to live with it.”

Here’s where you can find a friendly cuppa and some lively chat.

Memory Cafes

Asant Cafe, a virtual memory cafe, Edmonton, Alta.

https://asantcafe.ca

The ASANT Café, which is an acronym for the society’s community aspect, launched in April 2014. It’s a place where discussions take place and caregivers and patients can ask questions. The virtual community also features videos and extensive information on Alzheimer’s disease as well as other forms of dementia. It provides these individuals with the opportunity to seek information in a discreet way. Research shows that nearly half the people who suspect a family member suffers from dementia will put off seeking a medical diagnosis for up to two years. The website is intended for those on those who live in downtown Edmonton who may be socially isolated because of personal circumstances.

Alzheimer Cafe, Lethbridge, Alta.

http://www.alzheimer.ab.ca
The 4th Monday of each month (except December) 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.

A relaxed place to meet others and learn more about dementia. For people living with dementia, their families, caregivers and anyone interested in finding out more. For more information call 403-329-3766

Memory Cafe, Winnipeg, Man.

http://www.alzheimer.mb.ca

Crestview United Church invites people with dementia and their caregivers to Memory Café. The Memory Café is a place where people affected by dementia can socialize and have fun with other people going through similar experiences. Please join Crestview United Church (316 Hamilton Ave, Winnipeg, Manitoba) on Wednesdays, from 10:30 am to 12 pm. Memory Café meetings will continue to take place the third Wednesday of every month. For more information, contact Crestview United Church at 204-832-0475 or Susan Gustafson at 204-831-7665 or s.gust@shaw.ca.

The Alzheimer Society of Huron County

First started hosting a Memory Cafe in September of 2011 as a safe, friendly place for persons with dementia, family, care partners and other interested parties to drop in and openly socialize with each other.

For more information: 519-482-1482

First Link Memory Cafe at Mosaic

http://www.mosaichomecare.com/first-link-memory-cafe-at-mosaic-4/

Organized by the Alzheimer Society of York Region, this is a monthly group held on the last Tuesday of each month in Thornhill, ON.

To find an Alzheimer’s Cafe in your area: Contact the Alzheimer Society of Toronto at www.alzheimertoronto.org 416-322-6560

Memory Cafe, Alzheimer Society of Montreal, Que.

http://www.alzheimer.ca/en/montreal

Alzheimer Society of Montreal 5165 Sherbrooke Street West, Suite 410. Montreal, Quebec, H4A 1T6 Tel.: 514 369-0800. Fax: 514 369-4103

Atwater Library and Computer Centre
1200 Atwater Ave, Westmount

Atwater metro station
English Program 3rd Tuesday of the month 1–3 pm

Les Petits Frères
4624 Garnier Street, Plateau Mont-Royal –
Mont-Royal and Laurier metro stations
French program 2nd Wednesday of the month 1–3 pm

Langelier Library
6473 Sherbrooke Street East, Montreal

Langelier metro station
French program 3rd Friday of the month 1–3 pm

Alzheimer Society of New Brunswick Memory Cafe

Held on the last Sunday of each month from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. at the St-John Anglican Church, 75 Main St, Fredericton NB.

For more information, please contact: Melanie Saulnier Tel: (506) 459-4280
Email: fredericton@alzheimernb.ca

Antigonish Alzheimer Cafe, Nova Scotia

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Antigonish

First Friday of every month at 5:30 pm at the Antigonish Public Library.

Careforce Alzheimer Cafe, Kentville, Nova Scotia

http://www.careforce.ca/alzheimercafe

Each month, we offer a two-hour social gathering that is uplifting, informal, and non-judgmental. By attending our Alzheimer Café, you’ll discover helpful information and resources, and hear from interesting guest speakers.

Lori Given RN at 365-3155 or by email at lori@careforce.ca

 

READERS: Please let us know of cafes in your neighbourhood. Email Susan@Alzlive.com



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Susan Grimbly

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