Dubai launches memory cafe for people with Alzheimers

Dubai Health Authority (DHA) has launched the Memory Café- it's actually a support group that will now be meeting regularly at the Seniors’ Happiness Centre of the DHA.

Every month for two hours, patients with Alzheimer's and other types of dementia - along with their families - can come together in a new 'cafe' introduced by the Dubai DHA.

Dr Salwa Al Suwaidi, geriatrician and director of the Seniors’ Happiness Centre said, “The Memory Café is an informal and relaxed setting and will encourage active participation and conversations. The initiative will help family members provide the best possible care, as well as help boost the morale of patients battling this disease."

Patients' families are encouraged to sign up for the initiative as the group also aims to provide emotional, educational and social support for the caregivers, too.

Support groups are particularly important for this disease, the expert said, because there is still no curative therapy available. "Medications can only delay the progression of the illness; therefore, coping strategies and behavioural therapies are important in dealing with this disease," the official added.