Dementia Friendly Initiative

Swampscott joined the Dementia Friendly statewide initiative in 2019.  AARP Massachusetts created a tribute to the state’s first five years.  Click here to see how Swampscott participates. 

Caregiver Support Group – Virtual Meeting on Wednesdays at 1:00 pm

Our Dementia Friendly Action Team, made up of dedicated professionals as well as people living with dementia and caregivers, began organizing in 2019.  While the Action Team was still in the planning phase, feeling the extreme distress of caregivers and loved ones living with dementia under the pressure of COVID, we initiated our virtual support group. By August 2020 the Caregiver Support Group was well established and the Action Team completed our two-year action plan.  Swampscott signed the Dementia-Friendly Pledge on August 11, 2020.

Click here for more information about our Caregiver Support Group

Memory Cafes – Third Tuesday of the month at 1:00 pm

Memory Cafes are gatherings of people who are living with memory loss and their caregivers or friends.  It is a social time creating an opportunity to make new friends,

interact without fear of embarrassment or being misunderstood.  Caregivers are able to share their ideas, support and feelings.  Cafes typically include structured activities such as art, music, crafts or creative writing.  By the Sea Memory Cafe is held at the Swampscott Senior Center on the third Tuesday of each month from 1 -2 pm.

To learn more about Memory Cafes and to locate other cafes around the state go to Massachusetts Directory of Memory Cafes at

www.memorycafedirectory.com/memory-cafes-in-massachusetts

Social Day Program – Fridays 10 am  – 2 pm

The Social Day Program is open to people living with early to mid-stage dementia.  Participants come to the senior center to enjoy four hours of engaging activities, thoughtful discussion, appropriate exercise programs, perhaps an outing and a yummy lunch.  On nice days, the Bocce court is a center of attention while members and volunteers enjoy some fresh air and competition. This program is limited due to space constraints.  Please call the Senior Center to learn more.