By Isabel Pancake
Here, for one afternoon a week, old people forget that they forget: in the Dementia Café Malta der Malteser in Berlin-Lankwitz. A BZ visit.
Every Monday, around eight seniors with dementia come to the facility in Lankwitz for three hours. According to the Federal Ministry for Family, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth, 1.8 million Germans suffer from the disease. “Some people hide their dementia and try to preserve the image to the outside world,” says Nadine Lexa (48), coordinator of dementia work for the Maltese.
Others, however, admit that they no longer know something. “It starts with forgetfulness and disorientation. Often this is not even noticed by the relatives. Until a major incident occurs,” said Lexa. Café Malta relieves the burden on families. And brings joy to the old people.
BZ reporter Isabel Pfannkuche (M.) shows Evelyne Schötz her cell phone Photo: Stefanie Herbst
“I just like being with other people and chatting,” says Evelyne Schötz (88) from Mariendorf. Real friendships have already developed in the group. Silvia Kluge (89) from Dahlem says: “There is a lot of laughter here, someone always comes up with a funny saying. I’ve been forgetting a lot lately. But I still feel fit.” She especially enjoys the sports exercises in a circle of chairs.
Silvia Kluge (89) from Dahlem: “There is a lot of laughter here, someone always comes up with a funny saying. I’ve been forgetting a lot lately. But I still feel fit.” Photo: Stefanie Herbst
Every day at Café Malta has a special theme. “Today it’s animals,” says Lexa. One by one, the seniors should name an animal that comes to mind. “Hansi, my bird. “I’ve had it for a few years now,” remembers Schötz.
The Maltese have 120 volunteers caring for people with dementia. You must take first aid courses and are specially trained. Because working with people with dementia can be challenging.
Nadine Lexa (48), coordinator of dementia work at the Maltese Photo: Stefanie Herbst
Lexa: “Very few people become aggressive due to the disease. However, aggression is not a symptom of dementia, but is usually the result of fear and insecurity. Here in our Café Malta people experience safety and security.”