Memory loss is frightening for all of us. When we see its effects upon others, we may feel motivated to do brain stimulation exercises for ourselves and to help the caregivers—often spouses—of those who suffer. The Lyngblomsten Care Center has a new state-funded program to assist both clients suffering from memory loss and their caregivers. There are two ways you can help.

The Gathering group respite program. This is a five-hour program of brain-stimulating activities carried out in a group. Each memory-loss person is paired with a volunteer who ensures the memory-loss person’s safety and interaction while also giving their regular caregiver five hours of relief.

You are invited to observe a “gathering” for a 60- to 75-minute introduction to the procedures and discussion of caregiver services. These gatherings are conducted at six church locations in St. Paul, Roseville, and White Bear Lake (see list below). Those who agree to volunteer will participate in a training session at the Lyngblomsten facility in St. Paul’s Como neighborhood. Volunteers may then schedule a five-hour “gathering” session once or more monthly.

Upcoming dates and locations:

• May 8, 10 a.m. West St. Paul, Salem Lutheran Church, 11 Bernard Street
• May 17, 10 a.m. White Bear Lake, United Methodist Church, 1851 Birch Street
• June 5, 10 a.m. Roseville, Centennial United Methodist Church, 1524 County Road C2 West
• June 21, 10 a.m. White Bear Lake, First Presbyterian, 4821 Bloom Avenue
• June 26, 11 a.m. Woodbury, Woodbury Baptist Church, 6695 Upper Afton Road

Memory-Loss Caregiver Respite Volunteer Project. A separate program provides in-home relief for caregivers. The volunteer spends two to three hours with the memory-loss client to allow the caregiver time off. This also requires a training session at the Lyngblomsten Como facility. The commitment is one session weekly.

To register and observe a “gathering,” or for information about other opportunities for volunteering with the University Retirees Volunteer Center, please email [email protected] or call 612-623-8016. 

— Alan Kagan, URVC Coordinator