Kesher Cafe for Young Onset Dementia
Available in:
- Montgomery County, MD
Kesher Café is a specialized program for adults living with young-onset dementia (YOD—diagnosis before age 65) and their care partners.
Weekly Wednesday sessions comprise Maryland’s only social-model adult day program designed specifically for adults with YOD. These four-hour sessions provide person-centered cognitive, physical, and social activities planned and led by experienced staff. Participants benefit from meaningful connections with peers who share similar life experiences, as well as engaging programs such as art therapy, music therapy, gardening, community outings, drumming, and dance yoga, while care partners receive valuable respite.
In addition, free monthly Sunday sessions bring together participants and their care partners for a shared social activity. Following the group activity, participants enjoy a separate program while care partners participate in a facilitated support and discussion group led by a Master of Social Work (M.S.W.) professional, providing opportunities for connection, resource sharing, and mutual encouragement.
For more information, contact Colleen Kemp at 301-255-4204.
Participants must meet criteria for YOD & Early-Stage Memory Loss Program (Diagnosis prior to age 65; independence with walking, eating, and personal cares; acceptance of diagnosis; no wandering)
Schedule
Steps to Apply:
- INQUIRY: After reading descriptions of the programs, contact the program director at ckemp@jssa.org or 301-255-4204
- VISIT: Arrange a virtual or in-person club visit with the director or manager.
- FORMS: If it is a mutual fit, complete the four forms below.
- PAYMENT: Payments can be processed through the button below.
Forms to Submit:
Kesher Club Wednesdays:
- 10:00 am – 2:00 pm; $119/session (reduced dues available)
- Care partner respite
- Person-centered cognitive, physical, and social activities
- Experienced and supportive staff and volunteers
Kesher Club first Sundays:
- Free monthly social engagement group, 1:00-3:00 pm
- Must attend with a care partner
- Planned social activity for persons living with YOD
- Care partner support group