Stillwater Gazette: FamilyMeans hosts special evening for individuals with dementia and caregivers

Jun 30, 2026

Published by the Stillwater Gazette from information provided by FamilyMeans. June 18, 2026.

Click to view original article on Stillwater Gazette website.

FamilyMeans hosts special evening for individuals with dementia and caregivers

Individuals with dementia and their caregivers were invited to the first ever “Moment’s that Matter” event on June 11 to offer support and a moment of relaxation for all. Photo by Erlandson Photography. Photo courtesy of FamilyMeans

“Moments that Matter” was a chance to be with others navigating complexities of dementia

FamilyMeans’ Caregiving & Aging program offered “Moments that Matter”, a first-ever special evening for those living with dementia and their caregivers, held on June 11 at the Stillwater Library. The event offered a rare opportunity for a relaxed, joyful night out that was fully supportive and inclusive.

Many who attended are participants of FamilyMeans’ Caregiving & Aging program offerings, which include coaching for caregivers, support groups, education, in-home and group respite options, and dementia empowerment initiatives.

The event included live music, a shared meal, and time to connect with others who are navigating similar life experiences. The library’s beautiful space, including a breathtaking view of the St. Croix River Valley, added an extra special element.

The goal of “Moments that Matter” was simple: to provide a fun, social, and “usual” evening for those living with dementia: an opportunity that’s often rare for individuals living with memory loss.

FamilyMeans’ staff and volunteers, who have specialized dementia training, provided dementia informed support, ensuring that guests felt comfortable and cared for.

The evening began with guests having a professional photo taken by Erlandson Photography (which donated a portion of their services), in front of a backdrop with the phrase “Better Together.” Plus, each household took home a colorful bouquet of flowers arranged by community volunteers. Throughout the event, harpist Andrea Stern played beautiful music to create a calm ambiance, which is important for those experiencing cognitive changes.

Beth Wiggins, Director of FamilyMeans’ Caregiving & Aging program (which is celebrating 40 years of programming in 2026), said “Events like the ‘Moments that Matter’ dinner play a vital role in reducing isolation for both caregivers and individuals living with memory loss. Public stigma surrounding dementia, often rooted in misunderstanding, can create significant barriers for those affected and their families, leading to anxiety, social withdrawal, and reluctance to engage in community spaces.” She continued, “By fostering connection and understanding, these events create a welcoming environment that encourages socialization and helps both caregivers and the people they care for feel supported, included, and valued within their community.”

The event was supported by funding from the Metropolitan Area Agency on Aging as part of the Older Americans Act.

Guests and volunteers shared their thoughts about the evening:

“I get anxious eating out, but I had been looking forward to this dinner since we got the invite.” — Caregiving & Aging Program Participant

“[My parents] had a wonderful evening and were surprised to see people they knew at their table, now realizing that there are others in the very same caregiving situation, which gave my dad so much hope and feeling less alone as a 90-year-old caring for his wife.” — Daughter of Caregiving & Aging Client

“It was a lovely evening, a chance to feel special and be treated like royalty. Even though my husband wondered several times why we were there, and that he didn’t know anyone, it was reassuring to me that there was a whole room of people that understand each other and are living different stages of this life.” — Caregiving & Aging Client