Memory Café to open in Melksham

A monthly café for people with memory problems and their families is to open in Melksham this month.

The Alzheimer café will be held at the Arts Café in Market Place from 3.45pm to 5.15pm. It is the third run by Wiltshire charity Alzheimer’s Support and is funded by Wiltshire Council.

The cafes give an opportunity to socialise with others in a similar situation while gaining useful information about memory loss and dementia.  Memory specialists and other professionals will be on hand for informal discussions over homemade tea and cakes, and guests can find out more about what support is available to people with dementia and their family carers in Wiltshire.

The speaker at the first event, on September 15, is clinical psychologist Paul Whitby, who will talk about Alzheimers: Myths and Facts.  All are welcome, but for catering purposes please call 01225 776481 if you would like to come along.

Councillor Jemima Milton, Wiltshire Council’s portfolio holder for adult care said: “We are delighted to be able to support this initiative which will help people living with dementia to meet others in similar circumstances.  We want to encourage people with dementia and their carers to participate in their local community and through this type of event we hope to support people to remain active and live well with dementia.”

Alzheimer’s Support also runs cafés at Fullingbridge Farm near Westbury, and East Grafton near Marlborough. Go to www.alzheimerswiltshire.org.uk for more details.