Conversation at a Brent Memory Cafe

What is a Memory Cafe?

A Memory Cafe is a community venue where people living with conditions affecting their memory, carers and family are able to connect over shared experiences. Other names for these places are Memory lounges and Dementia cafes.

There are various sites in Brent that host a Memory Cafe. They all have the social element, but some offer different activities for users such as chair-based exercises and quizzes.
This initiative is ran by the amazing Community Action on Dementia.

SK: How did you find out about Memory Cafes? Were you looking for one or did someone tell you about them?

MU1: One of my neighbours told me about this Memory Cafe. A lot of people find out  from word of mouth.
MU2: Me and the person I care for have a friend, she informed us [about the Memory Cafe].

SK: What makes them have a positive impact?

MU1: There are three elements to Memory Cafes creating impact. Physical, social and educational. Social, as you can see by the interactions. The physical part is just getting out of the house to be here, also  getting involved in the exercises. It’s educational when we get to do quizzes and gain more knowledge.
MU2: Yes I agree with those areas. From my view as a carer, it’s good for mental health. Once the person I care for got a wheelchair, I was able to take her to places. It reduces isolation.
 

SK: So would you advise organisations and healthcare professionals tell people about Memory Cafes?

MU1: Definitely. Not everyone has connections that can tell them about these initiatives running. Good to hear that Healthwatch is promoting them.
MU2: Yes. I think it would give carers more reassurance if multiple people recommended places like here.
 

SK: What would you say to someone thinking of joining?

MU1: Definitely come down and visit a cafe!
MU2: It’s such a welcoming place, so don’t feel nervous.
 

Many thanks to Community Action on Dementia Brent and the Memory Cafe users for inviting us into their space.