WHAT IS A MEMORY CAFE?
A memory cafe is a supportive, welcoming place for individuals with Alzheimer’s Disease or any
other form of dementia, or other brain disorder. It has also proved to be beneficial for people with
all forms of mild cognitive impairment.

Family members, caretakers and friends are welcome to attend.

Memory cafes focus on different activities for a unique group experience. You might have one
enjoying the connections of demographic-appropriate music and dancing. Others might focus on
crafts and painting. Some simply guide the participants in exercises that foster reminiscing.

​

WHY MUSIC IS THERAPEUTIC
Research suggests that listening to or singing songs can provide emotional and behavioral
benefits for people with Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia. Musical memories are
often preserved in Alzheimer's disease because key brain areas linked to musical memory are
relatively undamaged by the disease.

MY APPROACH
I have extensive experience working with memory care units, memory cafes and Alzheier's
programs. I focus on old songs that these clients know and love, encouraging them to sing along.
I sometimes tell stories related to the songs. Click HERE for the song list.

While there are varying degrees of participation, the music seems to reach a place that can be
otherwise difficult to access. Based on feedback from organizers, clients and their families, these
events have provided an enjoyable and valuable experience for everyone involved.

Here are some of the programs and facilities where I've entertained memory care clients: