Memory Cafe
Offering joy, support and connection to those living in the world of memory loss.
A Welcoming Space for Connection and Support
Our Memory Café offers joy, support, and connection to those with memory challenges, their care partners, and loved ones in a warm and welcoming environment. It’s a place where individuals with memory loss and their care partners can laugh, learn, and stay socially engaged with others who share similar experiences, fostering a sense of community and belonging. Caregiver support to lessen isolation and provide a sense of connectedness is at the heart of our mission, ensuring that no one feels alone on this journey.
Dates
4th Thursdays of the Month
TIME
1-1:20pm | Memory Motion with Amanda
1:25-2pm | Learning Lounge & Activity Hour
2-3pm | Social Spot & Refreshments
LOCATION
Crosspoint Alliance Church – 600 NE 8th St, Perham
Memory Café Brings People Together
Join us monthly for engaging topics and activities—sign up today!
September 25 - Living Wills and Power of Attorney
Understanding their importance in dementia care, ensuring legal and medical decisions align with your loved one’s wishes. Presented by Sam Felix.
October 23 - Ask Us Anything
Bring your questions to those who have experienced caring for loved ones in the world of dementia. We invite attendees to write down questions when they arrive and we will read off as many as possible to cover a variety of topics. Presented by Carol Wilkowski, Patsy Holper, Mary Karkela, and Pam Tyler.
November 20 - Managing the Holidays
How can you prepare for the holidays to reduce stress for you and your loved ones? From slight modifications to traditions, having smaller groups get together and other intentional ways we can make everyone’s holidays safe and enjoyable. Presented by Chuck Hofius, Perham Health CEO.
December 18 - Holiday Party
Celebrate the season with us at our holiday gathering! Enjoy festive music, delicious treats, and plenty of time to connect with old and new friends. The rest of the details are still in the works, but we promise an afternoon full of holiday cheer.
January 22 - Breaking the News
The diagnosis has been confirmed, now, how do you tell loved ones of all ages? What’s appropriate? Come to learn some tips on how to make the conversations a little easier and understandable, for friends, and family of all ages, including children. Presented by Deb Kaul from Memory Café of the Red River Valley.
February 26 - Preparing for Future Care
Caring for a loved one with dementia comes with many uncertainties, but planning ahead can bring peace of mind. This talk will gently guide you through the financial considerations of future care, helping you feel more prepared and supported when it’s time to make important decisions. Presented by Cheryl Wiskow, LSW from Otter Tail County.
March 26 - When is it Time?
Creating a list of your personal ‘turning points’ can help you recognize when it may be time for change—whether that’s seeking help and support at home, exploring new housing and potential wait lists, and making other arrangements. Presented by Jess Buys, LSW from Perham Health.
Memory Cafe Proudly Sponsored By:
The Terry Karkela Family
Memory Café Newsletters
Stay connected with uplifting stories, helpful tips, and upcoming events for individuals with memory loss and their care partners.
Have questions about Memory Cafe?
Here are some FAQs with details on what to expect and how to get involved!
Do participants need to acknowledge that they have dementia?
No. They will not be asked if they have a diagnosis. The environment is geared to the comfort and success of people with a wide range of cognitive capacities. The focus is socializing and creative exploration, activities common to all of us.
What disease stage is the Elevate Memory Cafe geared to?
The Elevate Memory Cafe is appropriate for anyone who can negotiate the physical space (which is fully wheelchair accessible) and enjoy being in a group of people. A care partner should stay with anyone who needs assistance with ambulation, medications and/or using the restroom. Staff and volunteers will NOT be able to help with these personal care needs.
Is the Elevate Memory Cafe for care partners, too?
Yes! Participants in Memory Cafes around the country often say that their favorite moments come when the person with dementia is enlivened by social interaction or arts activities, creating a sense of reconnection and closeness. Also, Memory Cafés give care partners a chance to meet and socialize with other care partners.
We do require care partners to stay with their loved ones during the entire session. Memory Cafe is not an alternative for respite care or Adult Day Services.
Could I bring a group of people from a day program or residential facility to participate?
Space is limited but we welcome everyone. Care partners are required to stay with the group and remain within the staffing and safety compliance of your normal programming. The Memory Cafe is staffed solely by volunteers. Please contact Katie at katie.murdock@perhamhealth.org or 218-347-1974 to discuss bringing a group.
What takes place during the Elevate Memory Cafe?
Monthly programming will be a mix of educational opportunities, social activities, and other engaging content such as introduction to arts, music and more.