Kesher Cafe for Young Onset Dementia

connect • share • support

Kesher Cafe logoKesher Cafe is the meeting space for adults with young onset dementia (YOD—diagnosis prior to age 65) and their caregivers. Weekly sessions on Wednesdays are 4 hours long and include person-centered cognitive, physical, and social activities planned and led by experienced staff. Attendees enjoy specialized programming while caregivers are given respite. Activities have included “paint and sip”, art therapy, gardening, and musical entertainment. A free monthly 2-hour session, which includes caregivers, consists of a group social activity and caregiver support. Care partners meet separately to connect and share.

For more information, contact Colleen Kemp, or Joyce Schneider 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)

Steps to Apply:

  • INQUIRY: After reading descriptions of  KC@Parklawn, KC@White Oak and KC@Germantown, contact the program director at ckemp@accessjca.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 linked on this page.
  • PAYMENT: Payments can be processed through this page.

Forms to Submit:

  • KC Leisure Interest Survey for Applicant: Form 1
  • KC Application for Care Partner: Form 2
  • KC Application for Club Applicant: Form 3
  • JCA Adult Program Photo Release: Form 4

Kesher Club Wednesdays:

  • 10:00 am – 2:00 pm; $105/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
Set up a monthly subscription to Kesher Cafe


My husband feels he is more active socially and likes seeing others who have early onset dementia. I think he does like the group, and it is nice for us to do something together in a place where he feels comfortable. it's almost like a small party for him that is at his level and not overwhelming. I do try to create positive memories for both of us and this seems to offer that opportunity.

It's just nice to talk to other caregivers .... Only those who have experienced dementia and Alzheimer's know what we are going through.

I have received much needed resources, ideas, and support through the Kesher Cafe. I have found that other support groups are for older adults and often parents or caregivers and it is VERY different when it is a spouse or partner. My husband was not interested in the other groups, but was open to Kesher Cafe since the other group members are closer to our age and experiences. We need more resources like this in the community.