June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month. One resource for older adults living with Alzheimer’s or dementia and their caregivers is the Alzheimer’s Cafe hosted by the New Hampshire SPCA. An Alzheimer’s Cafe is where people living with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia or other memory issues and their caregivers gather, socialize and enjoy conversation. What makes this one unique is participants can see some of the animals in residence that are part of the NHSPCA classroom program, as well as possible visits from pets owned by staff and volunteers or adoptable animals.
Research indicates that interaction with animals can offer excellent therapeutic results for older adults and those living with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Spending time with animals in a calm and safe environment could improve mood, decrease anxiety, and lower blood pressure. Alzheimer’s Cafes, also known as Memory Cafes, began in Europe in the late 1990s as a warm and welcoming place for individuals with Alzheimer’s or other memory loss to gather and socialize with others in a diagnosis and judgement-free zone. Cafes can offer a much needed opportunity for folks experiencing memory loss as well as their caregivers to continue being active participants in their community in a positive and stress-free environment.
If you know someone who may benefit from this ongoing program, the Alzheimer’s Cafe is held on the second Thursday of each month, from 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM in NHSPCA’s new Community Meeting Room on the first floor of the Learning Center (104 Portsmouth Avenue, Stratham, NH). Space is limited to 12 visitors, and registration is required. This monthly program is FREE, but donations are greatly appreciated. For more information please visit the Alzheimer’s Cafe at NHSPCA. To register, email kyoung@nhspca.org or call Kate at 603-773-5727.
On a personal note, although NHSPCA program was not available for our Grandpa, his time spent with animals helped him on his journey with this disease.
