There are two options for older adults to receive services: Time Together and Weekly Smile.
Time Together
Time Together is an in-person companionship program that connects older adults and college students.
Each older adult is paired with college student. The older adult and student meet and share stories, work together on art projects, and connect on other common interests.
As of January of 2023, we are in the process of matching families and students. Please reach out to Meg Kalafsky at megan.kalafsky@pennmedicine.upenn.edu if you want more information about this process.
Make a referral to Time Together
Weekly Smile
Weekly Smile is a virtual program that connects college students with older adults. This fun program can help reduce feelings of isolation and improve mood.
Once a week, students and older adults can share stories and advice, work together on art projects, and connect on other common interests. Weekly connections can occur through video or phone calls. For older adults with family caregivers, the time students spend with them allow for needed breaks for caregivers.
Weekly Smile is free of charge.
The benefits of Weekly Smile are backed by research. Weekly Smile can
- improve mood, increase dignity
- decrease social isolation
To make a referral, fill out the application below.
Make a referral to Weekly Smile
If you have any client specific questions or want to learn more about our program, please reach out to: megan.kalafsky@pennmedicine.upenn.edu
Check out our frequently asked questions (FAQ) page for quick answers to common inquiries.