Free Dementia Education Event Coming to Columbia Falls

MSU Extension's Mobile Memory Café hosts informative drop-in session at local library

Apr. 8, 2026 at 10:11pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An abstract, impressionistic photograph in soft, warm tones depicting the hands of an elderly person holding a cup, surrounded by blurred lifestyle objects, conveying a sense of comfort and care.A compassionate, community-driven event aims to shed light on dementia and provide support for those affected.Columbia Falls Today

MSU Extension's Mobile Memory Café program is hosting a free dementia education event at the Flathead County Library in Columbia Falls, Montana on Friday, April 10th from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event is open to caregivers, professionals, and the public, and will cover topics like early warning signs, diagnosis, and strategies for living well with dementia.

Why it matters

Dementia is a serious issue that affects many families, but there is often a stigma and lack of understanding around the condition. This event aims to provide supportive, easy-to-understand information to help community members better navigate memory loss and reduce the fear and misconceptions around dementia.

The details

The Mobile Memory Café program, led by Program Manager Lisa Brachwitz, will cover a range of dementia-related topics at the free drop-in event. Attendees will learn about early warning signs, how dementia is detected, what to expect after a diagnosis, and strategies for living well with the condition. Brachwitz emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and open conversations around dementia, which is not a normal part of aging.

  • The event will take place on Friday, April 10, 2026 from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The players

MSU Extension's Mobile Memory Café

A program that provides dementia education and support services to communities.

Lisa Brachwitz

The Program Manager for MSU Extension's Mobile Memory Café.

Flathead County Library

The location hosting the free dementia education event in Columbia Falls, Montana.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We need to make this less scary because we don't want people avoiding their doctor and thinking this is a normal part of aging. Dementia is not a normal part of aging. We want early diagnosis and we want people to have conversations.”

— Lisa Brachwitz, Program Manager, MSU Extension's Mobile Memory Café

The takeaway

This free dementia education event is an important opportunity for the Columbia Falls community to learn more about the condition, reduce stigma, and gain resources to support those affected by memory loss. By providing accessible information and encouraging open dialogue, the Mobile Memory Café program aims to empower families and promote early intervention.