Having a blast at our Memory Cafe
This month, we welcomed familiar faces and new friends to our Memory Café at Chepstow Community Hospital, which runs every third Wednesday of the month. Each session offers two hours of fun, laughter, and connection for people living with dementia and their loved ones.
For September, we were joined by our brilliant collaborators, the RISE group. Suzy and Joe led the way with seated ball games and listening quizzes, but no sports skills required! The activities were light-hearted, inclusive, and a great way to bring out everyone’s competitive side. From balloon tennis to table hockey, we had lots of laughs while keeping gently active with simple upper-body movements.
Why is a Memory Café so beneficial?
Living with dementia can be challenging, but engaging in activities like movement games, memory quizzes, and social interaction supports mental wellbeing, alertness, and cognitive function. Just as importantly, it’s a safe, welcoming space for loved ones too, somewhere to relax, connect with others, and share the load of caring. Many families tell us it feels like a little respite, where they can simply enjoy the moment together.
Who can join?
Everyone is welcome. Our group includes local residents from Chepstow and surrounding areas, with a mix of regular attendees and new visitors each month. The café is fully inclusive, open to people of all ages, different dementia diagnoses, and varying accessibility needs.
What’s next?
As autumn approaches, we’re planning a range of seasonal and themed workshops right through to Christmas. Expect creative sessions like art classes, guided activities, and plenty of opportunities to have fun together.
Practical details
Parking: Free hospital parking is available, including disabled bays.
Refreshments: We provide tea, coffee, water, and cakes. (Please note we’re unable to cater for specific food intolerances or allergies at this time.)
Dates for the next sessions
Our next Memory Cafe sessions (11am until 1pm) in 2025 will be:
- Wednesday 15th October
- Wednesday 19th November
- Wednesday 17th December