Dementia Support: You Don’t Have to Face It Alone - 17 Jul 2026

Noticing changes in your own memory, or in the memory and behaviour of someone close to you, can feel worrying. You may be unsure whether it is simply part of getting older, whether you should seek advice, or where to begin.

At Age Concern Sandwich, we understand that taking the first step can be difficult. You do not need to have a dementia diagnosis to speak to us or attend many of the local support sessions. Whether you are living with dementia, supporting a loved one, or simply wondering whether memory problems could be a possibility, friendly and practical help is available.

Dementia Drop-In Hub at St George’s, Deal

The Dementia Drop-In Hub takes place at St George’s in Deal on the third Wednesday of every month, from 12.15pm to 2.15pm.

This informal session offers an opportunity to meet others and ask questions in a relaxed and welcoming environment. There is no need to have everything worked out before you attend. You may simply want to talk through a concern, find out what support is available or understand what your next step could be.

Representatives attending include:

Dementia & Me, offering guidance and support to people living with dementia and their families or carers
Stilwell & Singleton Solicitors, who can offer helpful information on relevant legal matters and planning for the future
The Hub is a useful starting point for anyone concerned about memory loss, as well as those already living with a diagnosis.

Memory Café at St Richard’s, Deal

The Memory Café at St Richard’s in Deal takes place on the second and last Tuesday of each month, from 3pm to 5pm.

Supported by the Dementia & Me team, the café provides a warm and friendly place for people living with memory loss or dementia, together with their loved ones and carers.

Visitors can enjoy refreshments, conversation and gentle activities in a safe and understanding environment. There is no pressure to take part in everything; sometimes simply meeting others who understand can make an enormous difference.

Memory Café at Age Concern Sandwich

Our Memory Café at Age Concern Sandwich is held on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month, from 10.30am to 12 noon.

The café offers a welcoming opportunity to socialise, enjoy refreshments and take part in meaningful activities. It is a place where friendships can develop, experiences can be shared and both individuals and their loved ones can feel supported.

Create and Chat

Create and Chat takes place at Age Concern Sandwich on the first Thursday of every month, from 1.30pm to 3 pm.

This relaxed and friendly session brings people together through creativity and conversation. Activities are designed to be enjoyable and inclusive, helping people to connect with others, build confidence and spend time in a welcoming social setting.

No special artistic ability is needed—just come along, enjoy a cuppa and join in as much or as little as you wish.

Memory Assessments

Age Concern Sandwich also offers relaxed, one-to-one memory assessments using the SMMSE, a straightforward pen-and-paper activity that looks at memory, attention and thinking skills.

An assessment is not something to be afraid of and does not automatically lead to a diagnosis. It can help identify possible changes and guide you towards the right advice, reassurance or further support.

If you have noticed changes in your own memory, or are concerned about someone close to you, speaking to us may help to put your mind at rest or provide a clearer way forward.

Information and Advice

Memory difficulties can affect many areas of life, and families are often unsure what practical or financial support may be available.

Our friendly Information and Advice team can help with:

Benefit checks
Completing forms
Understanding available services
Practical guidance and support
Signposting to other local organisations
You do not have to navigate everything alone. We will listen, explain the options clearly and help you access the support that is most appropriate for your circumstances.

The Sunflower Centre

The Sunflower Centre is based at Age Concern Sandwich’s Well-being Centre and provides specialist day support for people over 50 who are living with dementia.

Open Monday to Thursday from 10am to 3pm, it offers a safe, secure and uplifting environment filled with friendship, laughter, creativity and warmth. Each day includes a thoughtfully planned programme of games, quizzes, crafts, music, gentle competition and plenty of conversation.

The service is designed to help people remain active, engaged and socially connected, while also giving families and carers valuable reassurance and support. A hot two-course lunch and refreshments are included.

The Cogs Club also runs on Fridays from 10am to 3pm for people with mild dementia or memory loss who are able to participate actively in the sessions.

We strongly recommend arranging a visit to see the centre, meet the team and experience the friendly atmosphere for yourself.

Please Reach Out

You do not need to wait for a crisis or a formal diagnosis before asking for help. Early conversations can provide reassurance, practical guidance and access to valuable local support.

For more information about any of these services, please contact Age Concern Sandwich:

Telephone: 01304 626954 / 614237
Email: sunflowermanager@ageconcernsandwich.com

Sometimes the hardest part is making the first call—but once you do, you will find a caring team ready to listen and help.