Memory Cafe For People With Dementia Opens This Month

PALOS HEIGHTS, IL —A "memory cafe" designed to serve as a social gathering place for people with dementia and their caregivers opens next week with a "laughologist" who will teach why laughter sometimes is the best medicine.

The PLOWS Council on Aging is sponsoring the Memory Cafe, a free event that happens the second Wednesday of each month from 10 to 11:30 a.m. The program ends in September.

The cafe is designed to offer conversation, an opportunity to relax, and opportunities to feel welcomed by and connected to the community. It also offers presentations from local experts on topics that include music, laugh or art therapy.

On March 13, Kathy O'Brien of Orland Park, a nurse and certified laughter leader with the World Laughter Tour, will offer a presentation on promoting health and well-being by elevating mood and increasing relaxation through laughter.

Participants meet at the Community Nutrition Network Site (formerly Our Lady of Loretto School) at 8925 S. Kostner Avenue in Hometown.

Registration is required. Call 708-361-0219 to register or for more information.

PLOWS Council on Aging is a nonprofit that provides comprehensive community services for aging and elderly people. It serves 20 municipalities throughout Palos, Lemont, Orland and Worth townships.