The Caring Collective
Next session starts October 2026.
The Caring Collective matches former and seasoned family caregivers with current family caregivers to provide support through their caregiving journey.
Programs & Services
Classes, support and a wide range of information on Alzheimer’s disease and brain-aging related topics are available to Penn Memory Center research participants, patients, and their caregivers.
Memory Café
Registration open – September 2026 through March 2027
Each month, PMC patients and caregivers are invited to a free pop-up café at Ralston House. Enjoy music from around the world, lectures from Penn experts, and coffee from local cafés.
Creative Expression Through Music
Registration open – September 17 through December 10
This fun, free interactive program is powered by the talented Curtis musicians and showcases the expressive power of music composition.
Short Term Supportive Counseling
Currently accepting participants
The Short-Term Supportive Counseling program is currently accepting new participants.
This free program offers up to eight weeks of supportive therapy for Penn Memory Center patients and their loved ones. Sessions are available in person, virtually, or by phone.
Therapy is led by Katrina Hertz, LSW, social work fellow at the Penn Memory Center.
Comedic Connection
Registration open – September 29 through December 8
join anytime during the sessionComedic Connection is a program that participants can get out of their own heads and experience “group mind” while learning the tenets of improve comedy. This free program is open to all members of the PMC community.
Caregiver Support Groups
Ongoing – Some groups have openings
Our support groups are designed to provide support and resources for caregivers of individuals with dementia.
Caregivers of PMC patients are welcome to join one of our support groups tailored to specific caregiving needs and experiences. If the individual you care for is not a PMC patient, you are invited to join our open Community Support Group.
Empowering Caregivers Workshop Series
Registration open – September through December 2026
Providing caregivers with access to area experts who will present on a variety of intensive topics from in-home activities to end of life care.
Caregiver Class
Registration open – September 22 through November 3
This 7-week program for those caring for a loved one with dementia isn’t your typical support group. Instead, it offers a unique curriculum to learn techniques to provide better care while coping with the personal and emotional challenges caregivers face.
Cognitive Fitness Programs
Availability varies by group.
In 2017, the Penn Memory Center launched three Cognitive Fitness programs for adults with a diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment: Skills Group, Therapy Group, and Social Group.