The National Institute on Aging estimates more than 5.7 million Americans have Alzheimer's disease. To combat the progress of this irreversible brain disorder, the Alzheimer’s Association recommends older adults remain socially and mentally active. The Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County, the Greater Cincinnati Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association and Episcopal Retirement Services (ERS) are partnering to expand a program called Memory Café to help those diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or dementia stay engaged.
“I saw that a library in another part of the country was doing Memory Café, but there was nothing similar being offered in our area,” said Kate Lawrence, the Library’s programming and exhibits manager. “I thought a program like this could be beneficial to the larger community.”
Launched in June, Memory Café is a one-of-a-kind event that began at the Harrison Branch, 10398 New Haven Road. Memory Café is held on the second Tuesday of every month at 10:30 a.m. People with Alzheimer’s or dementia and their care partners enjoy music, games, social interaction and other fun activities. The Alzheimer’s Association and ERS are training Library staff on effective ways to interact with people with cognitive loss so that the Library is an inclusive, welcoming space.
The first Memory Café events proved to be so popular and beneficial that the Library is expanding the program to two more branches. Beginning in October, the Blue Ash Branch, 4911 Cooper Road, will offer Memory Café the third Monday of every month. The Greenhills Branch, 8 Enfield St., will offer Memory Café the first Thursday of the month beginning in November. Both events will take place at 10:30 a.m. Registration is recommended. To learn more, visit CincinnatiLibrary.org and search the event calendar for Memory Café or call 513-369-6900.
About the Alzheimer's Association
The Alzheimer's Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer's care, support and research. Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer's disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health.
About Episcopal Retirement Services
Since 1951, Episcopal Retirement Services (ERS) has worked to improve the lives of older adults from all faiths through innovative, quality living environments and in-home and community-based services delivered by experienced and compassionate professionals. ERS launched the Dementia-Inclusive Cincinnati initiative in partnership with the Alzheimer’s Association and the City of Cincinnati to make Cincinnati the most inclusive city in the country for those who are living or love someone with cognitive loss. To learn more, visit www.episcopalretirement.com or call 513-271-9610.
