Baltimore County is funding the expansion of “memory cafés” where people with memory loss and their caregivers can gather and participate in creative activities in an effort to reduce social isolation. Local nonprofit organizations offer the cafés on a monthly or other regular basis, t ypically for free and in settings that are familiar to community members, like senior centers, libraries, faith-based spaces, and community venues. Individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, as well as their family members and caregivers, can visit these spaces to enjoy activities like music, art, and games. “Every resident deserves compassionate support, especially older adults living with dementia and the family members who care for them every day,” Baltimore County Executive Kathy Klausmeier said in a statement. “I’m proud to partner with organizations across our community that are creating welcoming spaces where people can stay connected, active, and engaged.” An estimated 6.7 million older adults have Alzheimer’s disease in the United States. By 2060, that population is projected to double, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. While dementia is not exclusive to older adults, the risk of memory-related illness grows with age. The World Health Organization estimates that about one in 10 older people experience loneliness, and one in four are socially isolated.  In fact, loneliness can increase the risk for dementia by 31%, according to the National Institute of Aging. Activities like playing or listening to music, making art, and other creative efforts have been shown in many cases to improve cognition and overall mental health. The memory cafés are being funded through the Department of Aging’s Dementia-Friendly Baltimore County (DFBC) Creative Engagement Innovation Mini-Grants. Each grant recipient is a nonprofit organization that serves Baltimore County residents. They include: B.R.A.I.N. Memory Café – Fleming Senior Center, Dundalk: Hosted by Neighborhood Companions, Inc., this monthly café (“Building Resilient Aging Inclusive Neighborhood”) offers a welcoming space for engagement. Register by calling 443-376-7102 Golden Age Village Memory Café – Islamic Society of Baltimore, Windsor Mill: Monthly gatherings featuring storytelling, crafts, puzzles, and sensory activities. Register HERE JCS Memory Café – Edward A. Myerberg Center, Northwest Baltimore: Jewish Community Services hosts a monthly café open to all, focused on connection and engagement. Register HERE Moments in Bloom – Well for the Journey, Lutherville-Timonium: A nature-based program with guided reminiscence, sensory activities, and outdoor experiences. MSBC Memory Café – Morning Star Baptist Church, Woodlawn: Launching April 18 with “Recipes of the Heart: Cooking, Stories, and Connection.” Register via email at [email protected] Nature Memory Café – TALMAR, Parkville: Participants enjoy horticulture, nature walks, and social activities in a sensory garden setting at Cromwell Valley Park. Register HERE or call 410-825-2020 United Voices Choir – Weinberg Village V, Owings Mills: The Iris Music Project offers an inclusive choir for individuals with cognitive decline and their caregivers. Register via email at [email protected] or call 410-900-2073 “These programs show that dementia care is about more than services—it’s about connection, dignity, and community,” said Heang K. Tan, director of the county’s Department of Aging, in a statement. “Through Dementia-Friendly Baltimore County, we’re working with trusted community partners to meet people where they are and expand support across the county.” Community organizations can email [email protected] or call 410-887-4751 for more information about Dementia-Friendly Baltimore County and how to explore future grant opportunities or partnerships. ...read more read less