Dementia Connections Cafes: Support groups for families and carers
4th June 2026 | 4 min read
We established Dementia Connections Cafes to offer support groups for families and carers and foster connection and community for those families of residents who are living with dementia in our care.
Facilitated by our team at Care Communities, these in-person meet-ups provide an informal, welcoming space where relatives can come together and share experiences. Held in a quiet private dining area, they’re structured as peer-support networks focused on connection, learning and shared problem-solving.
Turning insight into action
This initiative was established in response to feedback provided by attendees of our Dementia Care Connections webinar series, which over the past three years has equipped audiences with knowledge, insight and practical tools to better understand the dementia journey.
Families told us that as well as education, they were seeking opportunities to reflect on their learning, discuss practical strategies, and connect with others navigating the emotional and practical complexities of dementia.
Open to all relatives and significant others, Dementia Connections Cafes have a particular focus on spouses, who are often at heightened risk of social isolation and grief as they navigate the changes in the dynamic of their relationship.
Cafe meetups are held monthly and run for approximately 45 minutes. They’re facilitated by a team member who is a Dementia Care Champion or on the Care Community leadership team. This helps to nurture conversations while encouraging people to exchange practical strategies and reassurance.
By providing a face-to-face social connection, Dementia Connections Cafes enhance wellbeing for residents and families. Designed as a scalable, high-impact initiative, our Cafe framework is replicable across all our Care Communities.
Support in action
At Meadow Heights Care Community in Victoria, attendees shared that their mental health has improved because of the connections they have formed and the practical support they offer one another. One spouse described how the group “looks out for each other,” even stepping in to visit a loved one when someone else is unable to.
Aldinga Beach Care Community in South Australia hosts a monthly Dementia Connections Cafe, welcoming between eight to 15 families, held straight after a Dementia Care Connections webinar.
"The Dementia Connections Café is great. You can share your experiences, express your feelings, and ask for help. I've learned so much, and I enjoy helping others too. I've encouraged families ̶ especially those new to dementia care ̶ to join our meetups." - Margaret, family member.
"I’ve attended these meetups a few times and have found them helpful in improving how I communicate with my mum. It’s also been good getting to know senior team members, as well as other families going through similar experiences." - Chris, family member.
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