Meeting over coffee, connecting through care
How a weekly coffee became a meaningful circle of support.
Growing your community of support
Dementia is a tough diagnosis. Having other people to lean on, who deeply understand, is so important. The Alzheimer Society is your place to connect, ask for help and grow your support system.
Meet the “Coffee Ladies”
Lynn, Irene, Judy, Bev, Alison and Josephine all share something in common: each is a care partner to their husband, who lives with dementia.
Every week, the women bring their husbands to the Alzheimer Society for a support group, and then, together, head across the street to a local coffee shop.
What began as a simple coffee break turned into a regular get-together — a time to talk, laugh, and support one another. “In my eyes, the reason this group of ladies works so well is that we are all so vulnerable and yet there is no judgment, just support,” says coffee group member Alison. “And of course, finding the humour together in situations helps a lot.”
The friendship between these women grew naturally, shaped by a shared understanding of what it means to care for a partner living with dementia. While each of their experiences is unique, they’ve found comfort in knowing they’re not alone.
Ask any of them, and they’ll tell you — there’s something special about sitting down together, and sharing your thoughts and feelings with others who know exactly what you’re going through. Here’s what each of these women had to say about their coffee group.
Being part of the coffee group means a lot to me. It’s a place where I feel understood without having to explain myself. We share stories, laughs, frustrations, and even silence. There’s a comfort in being around others who are walking a similar path.
Bev
Our group evolved organically — three to start, then four, five and six. We just gelled. I feel that I can tell them things about my situation without feeling like I’m being disrespectful to my spouse. These friends are now a very important part of my life.
Irene
When we started to meet I expected someone to enjoy coffee with, but I now have a close support group, where we listen to each other, offer support and ideas on how to deal with situations. I can bring my fears, concerns and worries about everything and be heard.
Judy
I love these women! They are wise, funny and resilient. These gals are my sisters of compassion and empathy. We can talk about anything without feeling judged or pitied. Sometimes it’s one of the only moments I can truly laugh during the week.
Josephine
This group is so important to me because I can share my thoughts, feelings and emotions without being critized. It feels like we’re a family. They are great listeners and caring women, always ready to share their experiences. This group was meant to be!
Lynn
Join a support group for guidance & connection
Making connections and friendships with others who are also facing a dementia diagnosis can give you a safe place to land again and again, offering reassurance and support.
Joining a support group at the Society is a good place to start if you’re looking to grow your own community of support. Support groups are spaces where you can meet, chat and gain information about navigating the complexities of dementia. Sometimes, making that first connection with someone can be as simple as sharing a few thoughts over coffee.