Conni’s Memory Cafe in the Poconos

Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia can be challenging, but you are not alone.

Memory Cafe at Conni’s Cafe is a welcoming place for those living with mild cognitive impairment, Alzheimer’s, or other related dementias, and their care partners. Conni’s Memory Cafe launched in September here in Monroe County, and it was such a success that it’s now a monthly event!

Every month, the Memory Cafe takes place, providing a relaxed, friendly atmosphere where support and connection flourish right here in the Poconos. Each gathering is a wonderful opportunity for individuals with dementia and their care partners to connect and receive a little extra support from our community.

Who Makes Memory Cafe Possible?

Griswold Home Care for the Poconos is honored to help sponsor Memory Cafe. The event is made possible by the collaborative efforts of organizations and partners right in Monroe County.

• Monroe County Dementia Coalition: A group of like-minded individuals who come together for the purpose of offering education, resources, advocacy, and support for people living with dementia and their caregivers.
• Dementia Friendly Monroe County: A new initiative creating an inclusive and supportive environment for people living with dementia, their care partners, and those important to them.
• Functional Cognitive Consulting: Led by Barbara Van Nortwick, her goal is to shift the paradigm from providing care to actively engaging with individuals living with dementia.
• Community Foundation of Monroe County: Connects people, public bodies, and nonprofits to address Monroe County’s critical needs while managing charitable assets.

Their dedication ensures that Memory Cafe is a welcoming space for all, and we appreciate their efforts to support families in our community.

What Can You Expect at Memory Cafe?

At each Memory Cafe, Barbara Von Nortwick, a certified Dementia Practitioner and leader of Functional Cognitive Consulting, creates an engaging environment for individuals with dementia and their care partners, offering professional guidance and support. Every month, members of the Poconos community gather at Memory Cafe with their loved ones and care partners.

Highlights from Past Events

September kicked off with music led by Barbara, featuring songs from the ’50s through the 80’s. October brought a relaxing afternoon of chair yoga with Luz. November featured a special visit from a pet therapy dog from Sit, Stay, ‘n Play, plus the ribbon-cutting ceremony and open house for Conni’s Cafe, attended by State Representatives.

In November, Memory Cafe also took a moment to recognize Tracey Lassett for her extraordinary efforts. In honor of her mother, who had Alzheimer’s, Tracey hiked through Scotland and raised over $3,200 to start Conni’s Cafe during her two-week journey. She donated her mother’s pink handkerchief, which she had worn on many hikes, to the cafe. Sadly, her mother passed away from Alzheimer’s in November.

In addition, during the November Memory Cafe, we were grateful for the following State Representatives who attended:

• Charles Taibi, representing Congressman Rob Bresnahan Jr., presented a certificate
• MacKenzie Mueller, on behalf of Senator Rosemary Brown, presented a plaque
• Letisha Griffith, representing State Rep. Maureen Madden, presented a plaque
• Jacob Pride, Smithfield Township Supervisor, presented a plaque
• Pocono Chamber of Commerce presented a plaque

We are honored and touched by this story and sincerely appreciate Tracey’s dedication to raising awareness of Alzheimer’s. In December, everyone celebrated the season with festive holiday songs.

Join Us at Upcoming Memory Cafe Events

Memory Cafe will continue into the New Year, and we look forward to welcoming even more community members. Stay tuned for upcoming dates, which will be announced soon.

Contact Us

Alzheimer’s and dementia can affect any family, and caring for a loved one with the disease can be overwhelming. Griswold Home Care for the Poconos is here to support you at home. We provide compassionate care when you need it most. Contact us today to learn more about our dementia care support services. We can even create a personalized care plan just for your family.