Avondale Library's Memory Cafe to Help Families Cope With Dementia Kicks Off on March 25

Note: Avondale Regional Library is encouraging families dealing with dementia to contact the library if interested in participating in its Avondale Memory Cafe. For more information, contact Leslie Deason via phone at 205-226-4000 or email Leslie.deason@cobpl.org. 

Birmingham, Ala. - Caregivers and others trying to cope with the impact of dementia and other brain disorders, the Avondale Regional Branch Library is here to help.

At 2:00 p.m. on Monday, March 25, Avondale Regional Library is kicking off its first Avondale Memory Cafe.

Memory cafes offer people with dementia and their caregivers the opportunity to enjoy regular social interaction and to participate in interesting activities with others in similar circumstances- in a safe, welcoming environment. 

Social interaction is so important for those with dementia and cognitive issues. Social interaction helps with keeping the brain active, maintaining memory and managing emotions. At cafes, individuals can connect, socialize, and form social networks. It is especially important for caregivers to form friendships and interact with others who are facing similar challenges. 

By forming social networks, caregivers can ask for advice, talk about frustrations and just form friendships. 

The Avondale Memory Café event time is March 25 at 2:00 p.m. in the auditorium at the Avondale Regional Library, 509 40th Street South. The café is free to attend and all are welcome. 

The theme for this month is “Getting to Know You.” We plan to operate the program for 1 ½–2 hours. There will be puzzles, games, story time, and music. 

There are few memory cafes in the Birmingham area. Alzheimer’s disease, in particular, is an absolutely devastating disease for families and patients. We hope those facing similar cognitive issues will visit our café and enjoy time spent with others and enjoy stimulating activities.

We are excited about offering a program that will offer help and hope to those who need a supportive place.

By Leslie Deason, Outreach Librarian of Adult Services Department | Avondale Regional Branch Library