The Region IV Area Agency on Aging is launching a new program for those living with dementia and their caregivers in 2026.
Area Agency Campus for Creative Aging coordinator Jess Kolbe tells us Memory Cafes will be held throughout the year in New Buffalo, Niles, and Stevensville. They’ll be a place for those with dementia and their caregivers to engage in art, enjoy games and puzzles, and learn about interesting topics in a safe and welcoming environment.
“Together at these Memory Cafes, the person that may be living with dementia or other cognitive changes comes with their caregiver and we give them a space to build social connection and friendships and help kind of destigmatize living with dementia,” Kolbe said.
They’ll also have coffee, tea, and snacks, just like any cafe.
Kolbe says there are more than 12,000 people currently estimated to be living with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementia in Southwest Michigan. As the dementia-friendly community has grown, the Area Agency on Aging has seen a need to help those affected interact.
“These Memory Cafes are a place to destigmatize it and show that you do live well with dementia and you can have fun and you can participate with your community members.”
The Memory Cafes will be led by volunteer facilitators, and Kolbe stresses they are not for respite care. The events will be held at the township libraries in their communities each month. Learn more and register right here.
You can find the schedule below:
The Cafés are scheduled for:
– 9:30-11:30 a.m., the 1st Tuesday of the Month at the New Buffalo Township Library,33 N. Thompson St., New Buffalo
– 9:30-11:30 a.m., the 2nd Thursday of the Month at the Niles District Library, 620 E. Main St., Niles
– 1:00-3:00 p.m., the 3rd Monday of the Month (2nd Monday in January and February due to holidays), at the Lincoln Township Public Library, 2099 W. John Beers Road, Stevensville
