On Dec. 4 a special presentation of the Memory Café will provide a safe, welcoming place for those with early-stage memory loss or memory concerns and those who care for them to come together and share their memories of the holidays. The cafe will take place at an actual cafe--the Recovery Café at 939 Kearney St. from 2 to 3:30.  

The mission of the Memory Café, says Laura Cepoi, executive director of the Olympic Area Agency on Aging (O3A), is to “provide a safe, comfortable, engaging environment where people with memory loss and their care partners can laugh, learn, and remain socially engaged with others traveling on the same journey.” She adds that it’s a space where people can come together without fear to share their concerns and questions while enjoying social time with others who understand.

 “As we face a rapidly aging population,” says Cepoi, “we know that the incidence of Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia will increase, and we need to be proactive in creating spaces that are welcoming and supportive for those facing memory loss and those who love and care for them.”

 Cepoi added that O3A is in the process of creating a new position that will specialize in dementia awareness, including early diagnosis, as well as providing training for community partners. “It’s crucial that we get rid of the stigma around memory loss and dementia,” she said, “because it interferes with people getting the help they need as early as possible. There’s no shame in memory loss. We can all be better educated about how to notice the signs and what to do once a person is diagnosed and begins that journey.”

 Those interested in attending should RSVP to Jan at 360-344-3013. Coffee and tea will be provided. Guests are welcome to bring a light snack. Cepoi notes that the Memory Café is not appropriate for those with more advanced care needs, such as wandering, incontinence, a high degree of anxiety, significant mobility issues, or aggressive behavior.