The JFS Memory Cafés provide a welcoming, judgement free opportunity for people living with dementia and their caregivers to enjoy some fun and entertainment and socialize with others in the community facing the same challenges. Recently featured on WGBH.org in an article titled “Memory cafés serve up joy to people living with dementia“, the JFS Memory Café is the only program of its kind offered in the Framingham Metrowest region of Massachusetts.
Held between 1:00pm and 2:30pm the second Wednesday of each month, during each JFS Memory Café, participants are invited to enjoy light refreshments together and performances by local area entertainers and arts specialists. At the November JFS Memory Café, participants were treated to a Celtic Music Concert complete with the melodic sounds of the harp and guitar played by Board Certified Music Therapist Linda Lasalle MA, MT-BC.
Participants at the December JFS Memory Café were soothed by the sounds of singing bowls played by Certified Sound Practitioner Bonny Parlee. Singing bowl sound meditation is an ancient practice used for centuries in Tibetan and Buddhist cultures as a form of relaxation and healing. The singing bowls produce a soothing sound believed to have a powerful effect on the body’s energy system, helping to reduce feelings of anxiety and moving the body into a meditative relaxed state. Different tones that resonate from each bowl correspond to different energy or chakra centers in the body according to Eastern medicine. Bonny Parlee started the program with a guided meditation followed by playing the singing bowls, native Native American flute and chimes. Participants said that they felt the body shift to a more relaxed feeling.
JFS offers free Memory Cafés to persons with memory loss and their care partner at Temple Beth Am in Framingham. It is open to all. The program is funded, in part, by a grant from the Metrowest Cultural Council.
If you are caring for a loved one with memory loss or dementia, sign up to attend a JFS Memory Café. For more information, e-mail MemoryCafe@jfsmw.org or call 508-875-3100 x550.