People with Alzheimer's and their carers can often feel lonely and isolated. However in Ross there are several opportunities each month for people with dementia, their carers and families, to meet up in a friendly and welcoming environment.

The Herefordshire Branch of the Alzheimer's Society regularly organises the Ross-on-Wye Companionship Club which meets on the second Tuesday of each month at the Ryefield Centre from 10am until 12 noon. People with dementia and their carers can meet informally for a drink and a chat. Then on the last Tuesday of the month from 6.30pm until 8.30pm the Alzheimer's Café is held at the Larruperz Centre.

Viv Haylings is the Alzheimer Café co-ordinator and organises these meetings which follow the principles of the original Alzheimer Cafés which were set up in the Netherlands.

There is a meet and greet time while people arrive and take their places at tables which are organised in a café style. Then there is a talk from a health care professional on a topic relating to dementia. This is followed by supper, a picture quiz and usually there is some live music in the background. Viv explained that music can be very therapeutic and the Café is always looking for volunteers to play, this can range from songs from the shows to classical music.

Alzheimer's is a heartbreaking condition which can affect anyone. The Alzheimer's Society exists to offer support to people with dementia and to champion their rights and a visit to the Café is a rewarding and supportive experience.

The café is open to anyone with dementia, their carers, friends and families or anyone with an interest in memory loss.

For more information about the Alzheimer's Café or any other of the services the Herefordshire branch of the Alzheimer's Society offers telephone 01432 371137.