The Barrington Area Council on Aging is delighted to introduce a new program, the Memory Café. It provides socialization for people with mild cognitive impairment and their care companions. Social Service Coordinators will host this program at Barrington’s White House, and will provide leadership and direction. This is a free program, thanks to generous donors, but you do need reservations. Call Bonnie or Sue at 847-381-5030 to make your reservations and get more information. The Memory Café is another #AgingBetter program from the Council on Aging.
The challenges of living with memory loss can sever social connections at a time when they are needed most. Memory Café is a place where people can relax and enjoy themselves and know that no one judges them. Both participants and care companions get the opportunity to socialize and participate in fun activities together while making new friendships and offering support to one another. Café members will determine if they want speakers or an educational component. Special activities could include outings to the theater, museums, and/or restaurants. This program is organized and supervised by trained and caring Council on Aging staff and volunteers.
Potential participants and their caregivers will be asked to pre-register to determine their appropriateness for the program. Participants will be evaluated on an ongoing basis. If it is determined that the participant is no longer a good fit for the program, the facilitator will help the caregiver and family with the transition to a program that will better meet their needs.
Primary Goals for Memory Café include:
- To provide persons with mild cognitive impairments and their care companions the opportunity to join a program that enables them to socialize with other people in a fun environment;
- To involve agencies, churches and other community organizations to help serve people with mild cognitive impairment and their care companions;
- To offer care companions access to resources such as support groups and information and referral services.
The Council on Aging’s Memory Cafe will meet on the third Wednesday of each month from 1:00-3:00 p.m. at the Barrington White House. There is no charge for this program, but please register at 847-381-5030.
Founded thirty years ago, BACOA exists to promote #AgingBetter, or vibrant, healthy aging through activities, education, and support to adults and caregivers. BACOA serves approximately 1,200 individuals a year and assists the community in the following ways:
Information on housing options or in-home care services * Meals-with-Wheels * Enrollment in Medicare and Medicaid * Counseling on insurance, benefits and Medicare Part D * Support and education groups for seniors and caregivers * Activities and programs for active seniors * A day respite program for older adults * Educational programs and services for the community on issues related to aging
To see how BACOA embraces their mission daily, search #AgingBetter for their social media updates and find more information about their programs at BACOA.org.
