Crossmount Memory Cafe

Here at Crossmount Memory Café, we incorporate live entertainment into our activities. Music can be powerful. Studies have shown music may reduce agitation and improve behavioural issues that are common in the middle-stages of the disease. Even in the late-stages of Alzheimer's, a person may be able to tap a beat or sing lyrics to a song from childhood. Music provides a way to connect, even after verbal communication has become difficult.

Use these tips when selecting music for a person with dementia:

- Identify music that’s familiar and enjoyable to the person. If possible, let the person choose the music.

- Choose a source of music that isn't interrupted by commercials, which can cause confusion.

- Use music to create the mood you want. For example, a tranquil piece of music can help create a calm environment, while a faster paced song from someone's childhood may boost spirit and evoke happy memories.

- Encourage movement (clapping, dancing) to add to the enjoyment.

- Avoid sensory overload; eliminate competing noises by shutting windows and doors and by turning off the television. Make sure the volume of the music is not too loud.

Our next live entertainment is on Tues. July 25th at 10:00am. Stop by and see the benefits yourself!

For more information, or how you can register a loved one for the Crossmount Memory Café, please email [email protected] or call 306-374-9893!

Resource:

Art and Music Get information and resources for Alzheimer's and other dementias from the Alzheimer's Association.

We need your help!!

In partnership with Caregivers Alberta, the University of Saskatchewan, Saskatchewan Polytechnic, Saskatchewan Seniors Mechanism, and the Crossmount Memory Cafe, we are looking to recruit volunteers who are current caregivers or are passionate about supporting caregivers in the community to participate in a 4- part caregiver workshop series! Participants will also have the opportunity to contribute to making modifications to the 4-part modules to "Saskatchewan-ize" the content for future caregivers!

Topics include being a caregiver, managing stress, balancing relationships, and navigating the journey! The 4-part workshop will take place on Friday mornings in July over Zoom and there is no cost to participate!

If you may be interested in participating, please contact Natasha at [email protected].

Knowledge is power!