The Penn Memory Center manages three Cognitive Fitness programs: Skills Group, Therapy Group, and Social Group. Find information on each program below.
Cogfit Psychotherapy Group
People with subjective change in thinking or a diagnosis of Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) may experience emotional difficulties as they adjust to changes in cognition. These may include:
- Not wanting to socialize with friends or family because of feelings of embarrassment
- Engaging less in activities that were once enjoyable
- Changes in relationships and roles in the household
- Changes in self-concept due to retirement or other life-stage changes
The Cognitive Fitness Psychotherapy Group is for people with MCI or subjective cognitive change, who are also feeling depressed or anxious. The group uses an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) approach to address distressing thoughts and feelings.
PROGRAM BENEFITS:
- New strategies for stress reduction, coping and self-care
- Better management of depression and anxiety
- Opportunity to share and connect with peers
SCHEDULE:
The next Cogfit Psychotherapy group is anticipated to start in Winter/Spring ’25.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
For questions about the program or to register, contact Dr. Mechanic-Hamilton at the Penn Memory Center at 215-662-4516.
Group sessions are covered by many, but not all, individual insurance policies.
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Cogfit Skills Group
People with a diagnosis of Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) can face challenges related to thinking, learning, and remembering. Research shows that individuals can compensate for certain memory and thinking deficits by learning skills and techniques to support daily functioning and optimize independence.
PROGRAM COMPONENTS:
Memory Compensation Training
- Participants will learn to incorporate memory tracking, organizational tools, and other memory compensation techniques into their daily routine.
- These new practices can minimize symptoms of cognitive decline and improve independence.
Cognitive and Behavioral Approaches to Support Brain Health
- Participants will learn to use memory and organization tools to create habits that support brain and body health.
PROGRAM BENEFITS:
- Use areas of cognitive strength and new tools to support memory and organization
- Improved independence and quality of life
- Improved techniques for managing communication
SCHEDULE:
This program is not currently running. If you have questions, contact Dr. Mechanic-Hamilton at the Penn Memory Center at 215-662-4516 or email her at dawn.mechanic@pennmedicine.upenn.edu.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
For questions about the program or to register, contact Dr. Mechanic-Hamilton at the Penn Memory Center at 215-662-4516.
Group sessions are covered by many, but not all, individual insurance policies.
_________________________________________________________
Cogfit Social Group
The Cognitive Fitness Social Group is held one Friday per month, 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. The group is open to past-participants of the Cognitive Fitness Program and gives individuals an opportunity to meet-up, socialize and share ideas and thoughts about how to maintain the momentum for changes made during the group.