Community unites for Blackburn’s Umbrella Dementia Cafe
EVERY second Tuesday, people of all ages come together in Blackburn to support those among them living with dementia.
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EVERY second Tuesday, people of all ages come together in Blackburn to support those among them living with dementia.
Volunteers bring activities and morning tea to the One Community Church on Surrey Rd.
Blackburn Primary School students come to sing and chat with attendees and volunteers bring their children.
The Umbrella Dementia Cafe is a not-for-profit organisation that allows those with early/mid onset dementia to socialise and feel supported.
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“It’s multi-generational community in action,” Kirsty Porter, who is the instigator behind it all, said. “It’s quite amazing.”
“We really want to show that if the community comes together, we can take isolation off the table.”
Having been a registered nurse for years, Ms Porter started the group almost two years ago to improve quality of life for those living with dementia. People diagnosed with dementia attend with a carer to have fun, socialise and gain support in their journey.
“Coming to the cafe is sometimes the only time they leave the house,” Ms Porter said. “Socialising keeps their depression at bay.”
She said the cafe was a place where no one was frightened by the word ‘dementia’, and people could get information and discuss their health. “Some of the volunteers have already put their partners in nursing homes.”
Children and young adults are integral to the calm and joyful atmosphere, she says.
“We can’t use one generation — we need the whole community.”
Details: umbrelladementiacafes.com.au
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