This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Community Corner

Afternoon Tea Brightens Life for Mamaroneck Alzheimer's Patients

By Dorothy Sunshine

For seniors with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia, life can be extremely monotonous. 

I had been volunteering at Jewish Home Lifecare’s Sarah Neuman Center in Mamaroneck for eight years when, in 2002, I got to know the residents of the dementia unit. It was then that I saw how tedious the days could be for them.

So when, that same year, I was asked to help out with a program of bi-monthly afternoon teas started by another volunteer, Pat Jacobs, I jumped at the chance. 

I’ve been hosting the tea ever since, joined in recent years by Elaine Schenkerman, who was just  recognized for her volunteer activities by UJA-Federation of New York, and Robin Campbell, who’s been volunteering at Sarah Neuman for more than a decade.

Every other Thursday, we welcome anywhere from eight to 10 residents of the dementia unit to a cozy corner of the second floor. As sunshine pours through the picture window, we host a formal tea complete with Lenox China, an elegant tablecloth and a bright floral centerpiece.  

Whether it’s the regulars or newcomers, all look forward to the program – especially the sing-alongs. Whatever else they may have forgotten, everyone seems to remember the words to songs from their youth – patriotic songs like “Yankee Doodle Dandy” and “You’re a Grand Old Flag” as well as Christmas and holiday songs. 

While the residents enjoy traditional pastries and two types of tea, we engage them in song and reminiscences. This pleasurable tradition has made it easy for our guests to form a community that they look forward to reconnecting with week after week. 

I cherish this program and these residents and cannot stress enough how much joy it brings them. It has been and continues to be a marvelous experience for one and all.

There are lots of ways to volunteer at Sarah Neuman and to bring joy into the lives of those living there. Anyone interested should contact Amy Lionheart at alionheart@jewishhome.org. You’ll be amazed at how gratifying the experience is for you as well for the residents.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?