JFS MetroWest opens Memory Cafe

JEWISH FAMILY SERVICE of MetroWest offers the Memory Café the first Thursday of each month, 1-2:30 p.m. at the Lester Senior Housing Community in Whippany.

On Oct. 4, the guest presenter will be yoga instructor Tami Rager, who will lead the group in stress reduction activities.

The free café, the result of a grant from the Healthcare Foundation of NJ, provides individuals with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s Disease/dementia and their care partners a casual time to enjoy social activities and refreshments. Caregivers also have the opportunity for mutual support and to exchange information.

Cafe coordinator Siobhan Higgins, MSW, has extensive experience working with older adults and families caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia. “Unlike traditional support groups, the cafe provides an experience for both the caregiver and the loved one,” she said. “The family caregiver can receive the peer support they long for without the worry of making other arrangements for their loved one.”

Refreshments and entertainment are part of the program, with a different activity highlighted each month. On-site parking is available.

Registration is requested; call Higgins at 973-765-9050, ext. 1763, or visit jfsmetrowest.org.