MIDDLEBURY, Vt. (WCAX) – Memory cafes are popping up throughout the region as a space for Alzheimer’s and dementia patients to gather with their caregivers.
Upwards of 55 million people worldwide were living with dementia in 2020 and that number is expected to double in the next 20 years, according to Alzheimer’s Disease International.
Every third Wednesday, the Ilsey Public Library in Middlebury since January has been hosting a cafe. It’s an hour and a half of activities, conversation, and support for those personally and tangentially experiencing cognitive decline.
Ben Francour with the Eastview at Middlebury retirement community, says it’s all about building community. “Everyone deserves to live their most fulfilling lives at all stages,” he said. He says Vermont’s aging population needs spaces where those living with the disease can feel supported.