Thursday, December 7, 2023

Library’s Getaway Cafe aids adults with early memory loss

Getaway Cafe at the Williamsburg Regional Library will host various events such as time with therapy dogs for those with early memory loss. (WYDaily/File photo)
Getaway Cafe at the Williamsburg Regional Library will host various events such as time with therapy dogs for those with early memory loss. (WYDaily/File photo)

Williamsburg Regional Library is now offering a community of support and aid for those suffering from early memory loss.

The library is starting a new monthly program for adults with early memory loss and their care partners called “The Getaway Cafe,” according to a Williamsburg Regional Library news release.

The program will begin on Friday from 2-3:30 p.m. and continue on the third Friday of every month at the James City County Library on Croaker Road.

Each event will present a different theme through various activities, presentations and group discussions. Themes range from art, music and movement, but all focus on wellness.

There will also be interactive components, as well as visits from local organizations.

On Friday, the first event’s theme is “Presidential Pets” and will feature a talk on the four-legged inhabitants of the White House, followed by quality time with therapy dogs from K9 Connection.

“We really want this program to be a multi-sensory experience that engages our participants in conversation, recollection, and making connections with one another,”   said Barbara Jones, mobile library services manager. Jones has spearheaded the planning of the series.

The program is based on the “Memory Cafe” concept created by the Alzheimer’s Association, which addresses a need for stimulating experiences for adults living with memory loss.

The Getaway Cafe is not a support group, but gives participants the opportunity to engage with other people who are in similar situations. Individuals and their care partner must attend together.

Light refreshments will be served. Registration is encouraged but not required.

For more information, visit the Williamsburg Regional Library online.

Alexa Doiron
Alexa Doironhttp://wydaily.com
Alexa Doiron is a multimedia reporter for WYDaily. She graduated from Roanoke College and is currently working on a master’s degree in English at Virginia Commonwealth University. Alexa was born and raised in Williamsburg and enjoys writing stories about local flair. She began her career in journalism at the Warhill High School newspaper and, eight years later, still loves it. After working as a news editor in Blacksburg, Va., Alexa missed Williamsburg and decided to come back home. In her free time, she enjoys reading Jane Austen and playing with her puppy, Poe. Alexa can be reached at alexa@localvoicemedia.com.

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