Memory Cafe celebrates its anniversary
A special meeting place for LGBTIQ+ people with dementia, and their carers, has been successfully open for a year.
The Memory Lane Cafe at Victorian Pride Centre in Melbourne – part of an innovative program to provide a safe and inclusive space for people from LGBTIQ+ communities living with dementia and their carers – is marking its first year of operation.
This is the culmination of an idea to create a pop-up space in which participants can socialise while enjoying refreshments and entertainment.
LGBTIQ+ people with dementia face distinct challenges that often compound the difficulties associated with the condition.
Historically, many LGBTIQ+ elders have experienced discrimination, social ostracism, and a lack of familial support, leading to heightened vulnerability in their later years.
The successful Memory Lane Café program led by Dementia Australia, which has been embraced across the country, is changing this narrative.
When the cafe opened, Dementia Australia National Patron Ita Buttrose noted that for many people living with dementia, attending traditional social functions can be challenging.
“Creating safe and inclusive social environments is tremendously important for all people impacted by dementia,” she said.
Dementia Australia Executive Director Services, Advocacy and Research, Dr Kaele Stokes, said people from the LGBTQIA+ community living with dementia can face unique challenges, so it is important they have a safe space which meets their needs.
“LGBTQIA+ people living with dementia have often experienced discrimination or been denied access to inclusive services,” Dr Stokes said.
“Experiences like these can lead to feelings of isolation, which is why all of us at Dementia Australia are so proud that the LGBTQIA+ cafe can offer a place for connection and inclusion.”
Cafe volunteer Neale Gerlach said “Many LGBTQIA+ people can find themselves at odds with mainstream society, and living with dementia can further add to experiences of social isolation and exclusion.
“It’s such a treat to be able to come together regularly to chat, socialise and have a singalong in such a special and welcoming place.”
The cafe operates every six weeks with entertainment and light refreshments included. Attendance is free, but reservations are required. Call (03) 9815 7864 or email vic.memorylanecafe@dementia.org.au.
Related reading: Victorian Pride Centre, Dementia Australia
