Portland seniors experiencing memory loss can choose from various group activities to improve their quality of life and health. 

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, 69,000 Oregonians aged 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s, and 9.5% of our state’s population age 45 or older have subjective cognitive decline. 

For people with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia, activities that include others — especially exercise, music, and art — help prevent boredom and improve cognitive function among people in memory care. 

Here’s a list of local resources for seniors with dementia:

1. Memory cafes. Held weekly or monthly in libraries, churches, senior centers, and other public places, memory cafes offer activities and conversations for people with early-stage memory loss and their caregivers. Portland’s memory cafes include a monthly event at The Community for Positive Aging at 1840 NE 40th Ave.
   
   Every second Friday from 12:30 to 2 p.m., CFPA’s memory cafe promises “music, food, and friends!” An RSVP is preferred but not required, and a caregiver must accompany participants.
   
2. The Portland Memory Garden.  This is one of eight memory gardens in the US.  The garden is designed to meet the needs of those with memory disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease.  The garden can also provide respite for their caregivers.  The plants in the garden were chosen to help stimulate the senses and spark memories for dementia sufferers.  The garden is fenced to offer security and comfort for everyone visiting it.
3. The Alzheimer’s Association offers Dementia-friendly walking groups in Portland. These walking groups provide exercise and social connections for individuals and families of individuals with early-stage dementia.  Locations rotate throughout the city, so check with the association for the schedule.  Pre-screening may be required for those attending the program.
4. Urban Excursions. This Portland-based service offers daily social outings for home-bound seniors with physical or cognitive impairments. “Our staff provides door-to-door pickup and drop off for small, local adventure,” Urban Excursions says. “Explore area restaurants, music, art, and culture scenes, meet people, and engage in your community.”
   
5. Lifelong Recreation. Portland Parks & Recreation offers this program for seniors in the area. Activities throughout Portland include excursions and van trips, health and wellness, arts and crafts, music and dance, sports and fitness, hiking and walking, and much more. Check their site for the current activities schedule, registration, and admission fees.
6. Memories in the Making. The Oregon and SW Washington Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association hosts this ongoing program to provide a creative outlet and social interaction for people with mild cognitive impairment. Participants paint watercolor paintings in a group setting, offering “an opportunity to engage socially and reminisce about meaningful life moments, individuals or personal interests.” This regularly scheduled event takes place at the Chapter’s Lake Oswego. Reservation is free but required due to limited space. Check the Chapter’s event page for upcoming events and more information.