When Susan Sargent was living with frontotemporal dementia, communicating with her husband, Mitch Goldman, became increasingly difficult. But laughter offered them a way to reconnect.
The couple participated in Penn Memory Center’s Comedic Connection program, which brings people living with cognitive impairment together through improvisational comedy.
Their experience with humor took on new meaning during a visit to the National Comedy Center in Jamestown, New York, where classic comedy and interactive exhibits sparked memories, conversation and shared laughter.
“At a time when conversation had become difficult, laughing together brought back memories and gave us a way to connect,” Mitch recalled. “I treasure those moments.”
Now, their experience is inspiring a national initiative in Susan’s memory. From November 9–15, 2026, the National Comedy Center is hosting its first Susan Sargent Caregiver Week, offering free museum admission to caregivers and the loved ones receiving their care. Caregivers are also welcome to visit on their own for a moment of respite.
The initiative, part of the museum’s broader Comedy & Caregiving program, will provide visitors with take-home resources offering practical ways to incorporate humor into everyday caregiving.
“Humor is a vital coping mechanism for people living with dementia and their family care partners, as well as a path to more effective caregiving and a greater sense of connection,” said Alison Lynn, Penn Memory Center Director of Social Work. “It has been thrilling to watch how Susan and Mitch’s involvement in our Comedic Connection program snowballed into their advocacy work with the National Comedy Center, and it’s even more exciting to see Susan’s legacy be honored in a way that ensures more open access to the joy she experienced through comedy.”