Two New Local Memory Cafés Foster Community and Connection
Type: News
Focus Area: Aging
Memory Café Coordinator Hillary Green leads a dice conversation game to spark conversation and connection among attendees at the JCC Memory Café.
The Jewish Healthcare Foundation (JHF) has funded the establishment of two Memory Cafés in Pittsburgh to help enhance the lives of individuals with cognitive challenges and their care partners. These two initiatives, part of a broader grant to support older adults at risk for or experiencing early cognitive decline, aim to create welcoming, engaging spaces where participants can socialize, share experiences, and access valuable resources.
The Memory Café concept, first introduced in the Netherlands in 1997 by psychiatrist Dr. Bere Miesen, has gained international recognition for its inclusive, stigma-free approach to supporting those with memory challenges and their caregivers. These cafés provide more than just socialization; they offer opportunities for mental stimulation, meaningful activities, and resource sharing, all within a warm and accepting community setting.
Participants and their care partners benefit not only from the activities but also from the chance to connect with others who understand their journey. Such gatherings can reduce isolation, build friendships, and empower families with knowledge and shared experiences.
The first of these Memory Cafés debuted at the Vintage Senior Center in East Liberty on November 6. The event welcomed care partners and individuals living with dementia—for an afternoon of conversation, games, and light refreshments. This inaugural gathering set the stage for what is envisioned as a recurring monthly event, designed to grow and become a cornerstone of community support for families navigating cognitive challenges.
“The Memory Café is an open, welcoming space where people can just be themselves,” said Heather Sedlacko, Executive Director of Vintage Senior Center. “We’re excited to see how this project will evolve over time, reaching more families and fostering a supportive community.”
Organizers are optimistic about the future, as interest continues to build among local families, professionals, and community members, showing the model’s opportunities for growth in supporting individuals experiencing memory loss and their families.
The Jewish Community Center (JCC) in Squirrel Hill held its first Memory Café on December 2 with refreshments, conversation, and games. Its next monthly event will be on January 6 and after the holiday season will be held the first Monday of each month.
JHF’s initiative is part of a pilot program aimed at developing a sustainable model for Memory Cafés across the Pittsburgh region. During an initial eight-month planning phase, community partners like Vintage and the JCC will refine engagement strategies and evaluate programming to ensure these gatherings meet the needs of participants and their families. The ultimate goal is to replicate these successful models in other communities, extending their impact.
To learn more about Memory Cafés, including how to attend or start one in your community, visit Dementia Friendly Pennsylvania’s Memory Café Guide for free resources and guidance. The guide offers insights into planning, hosting, and sustaining these valuable community hubs. For information about upcoming memory cafes visit the Dementia Friendly PA calendar.