VPAS News

New Partnership with Memory Cafe Alliance

June 6, 2025- In recognition of Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month in June, Valley Program for Aging Services (VPAS) is announcing a new partnership with Memory Cafe Alliance.

The Memory Cafe Alliance was formed to sustainably increase the number of high-quality Memory Cafes throughout the U.S. As part of the partnership, VPAS Memory Partners programs are now included in a nationwide directory of Memory Cafes on the Dementia Friendly Website. Participation in this network signals VPAS’ commitment to dementia care best practices and a strong belief that by focusing on those living with dementia and their caregivers, we can enrich their lives together.

VPAS offers monthly programs designed to help dementia care partners experience joy, connection, and purpose.

Memory Cafes – or Memory Partners, as VPAS calls them – are a place where people experiencing cognitive challenges, along with their caregivers, can find meaningful programming and acceptance. Participants enjoy Tai Chi, games and other activities, and discover new resources.

VPAS offers Memory Partners programs at the following locations and times:

  • Massanutten Regional Library - First Thursday of every month, 10 a.m.
  • VPAS Waynesboro Office - Second Thursday of every month, 10 a.m.

Additionally, VPAS hosts Opening Minds Through Art (OMA) sessions with special Support Groups to help address the challenges that come with caregiving. These are offered from 1-2 p.m. on the first Tuesday of every month at Maury River Senior Center in Buena Vista.

“It is possible to lead a high-quality life with dementia,” said VPAS program director Joyce Nussbaum. “The important thing to realize is you are not alone. In VPAS, you will find a supportive network of experts and nationally-recognized programming that provides a safe path forward for dementia care partners.”

There is no cost to participate in VPAS care partner programs. Registration allows for better planning and improves the program experience. For more information or to register, call 540-615-5341.

Caregiver Connection at Bath Community Hospital

VPAS is partnering with Bath Community Hospital to start a monthly caregiver resource opportunity called the Caregiver Connection. The Caregiver Connection will be held on the third Wednesday of every month from 2:00 - 3:00pm at the hospital library. This is an opportunity for caregivers to come on an as-able basis to collect information and resources offered by both the hospital and VPAS. 

The Bath Community Hospital is located at 106 Park Drive, Hot Springs, VA.

To learn more about the Caregiver Connection, contact Taylor Fix, VPAS Program Support Specialist, at 540.615.5341 or taylor@vpas.info

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Maury River Pickers and Singer Concert    

April 21, 2025 - Buena Vista, Va. – The Maury River Pickers and Singers will host a Spring concert featuring many of your favorite tunes from the 1920's and 30's! Join us Friday May 30th at 12:00 at Maury River Senior Services, 2137 Magnolia Avenue, Buena Vista. 

VPAS 2025-2027 Strategic Plan Released

February 24, 2025 - VPAS' 2025-2027 Strategic Plan is now complete and available to the public. Producing this plan has involved much time and input from the VPAS staff, the Board of Directors and Advisory Council, and the clients VPAS serves. We look forward to seeing the further development and implementation of these plans and goals and welcome the community's support.