Memory Cafés in Connemara

Healthy County Galway, in collaboration with The Alzheimer Society of Ireland, has established a network of Memory Cafés and a Dementia Social Club across the Connemara region. These initiatives are supported by funding from Healthy County Galway, The Alzheimer Society of Ireland, and Creative Ireland.

There are approximately 3,553 people currently living with dementia in County Galway. This number is expected to increase significantly in the coming decades due to an aging population. While urban areas such as Galway City have higher concentrations of cases, rural communities also experience notable prevalence, though often more dispersed.

The Memory Café initiative forms part of a broader response to this growing need, aiming to ensure that people living with dementia and their carers can access appropriate supports locally within their own communities in Connemara.

The cafés and social club are intended to provide a supportive environment for individuals living with cognitive impairment and their carers. They offer opportunities to meet others, share experiences, and access information and resources related to dementia care.

Locations and Schedule

• Carraroe (An Cheathrú Rua) - First Wednesday of each month from 11:00am to 1:00pm at An Crompán, H91 X4WH. For further information, contact Mary at 087 780 4724.
   
• Clifden - Second and fourth Monday of each month from 11:00am to 1:00pm at Clifden District Hospital, H71 YV83. A Memory Café is also held on the second Monday of each month at the same time and location.
  For enquiries, contact Teresa at 087 721 2329.
   
• Inverin (Indreabhán) - Third Wednesday of each month from 11:00am to 1:00pm at Tearmann Eanna.
  For further information, contact Caroline at 086 785 2156.
   
• Lettermullen - Third Wednesday of each month from 11:00am to 1:00pm at Lettermullen Community Centre, H91 CH7X. For further information, contact Eilín at 091 551553.
   
• Letterfrack - Monthly (Wednesdays; specific dates vary) from 2:00pm to 4:00pm at The Wild Goat Café, Connemara West. For further information, contact Kathleen at 087 241 4169.
   
• Oughterard - Second Tuesday of each month from 1:00pm to 3:00pm at the Lake Hotel, Oughterard.
   
• Carna - Third Monday of each month from 11:00am to 1:00pm. For further information, contact Eileen Davis at 087 972 2419.
   
• Roundstone (Cloch na Rón) - Monthly (Tuesdays; specific dates vary) from 12:00pm to 2:00pm at The Bake-Away Café. For further information, contact Kathleen at 087 241 4169.

Purpose and Activities

The cafés are designed to reduce social isolation, improve well-being, and foster a sense of community among individuals affected by dementia. By offering a calm and inclusive space, the initiative supports both social engagement and access to practical resources.

Each session includes planned activities and talks that address the needs and interests of both individuals living with dementia and their carers. Activities may include informal social gatherings, educational talks, and recreational sessions tailored to participants’ preferences.

Objectives

The Dementia Café Initiative in Connemara aims to:

• Establish and sustain dementia-friendly cafés across the region.
• Provide regular social and recreational activities for individuals with dementia and their caregivers.
• Share information and resources related to dementia care and support.
• Expand provision to additional locations in response to identified community need.

Contact

For more information about the Dementia Cafés and Social Club in Connemara, please contact the relevant coordinator:

• Carraroe: Mary – 087 780 4724
• Clifden: Teresa – 087 721 2329
• Inverin: Caroline – 086 785 2156
• Lettermullen: Eilín – 091 551553
• Letterfrack / Roundstone: Kathleen – 087 241 4169
• Carna: Eileen Davis – 087 972 2419