Caregiver Support Groups in Philadelphia
Caregiver Support Groups in Philadelphia
Short answer: Caregiving can be isolating, but Philadelphia offers local support groups to help. You can connect with others through the Alzheimer’s Association, Penn Memory Center, and local Area Agencies on Aging.
- The Alzheimer’s Association Delaware Valley Chapter hosts free local groups in person, by phone, and via video.
- Penn Memory Center offers virtual support groups and a peer-matching program for dementia caregivers.
- Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA) connects families to the PA Caregiver Support Program for education and planning help.
- Respite care can give you the temporary relief needed to attend meetings and rest.
Local Support Groups and Programs for Philadelphia Caregivers
Finding people who understand your daily routine makes caregiving easier. Several organizations in Southeast Pennsylvania run regular support groups and educational programs for families.
| Organization | Program or Service | Contact Information |
|---|---|---|
| Alzheimer’s Association Delaware Valley Chapter | Free local caregiver support groups (phone, video, in-person) | 399 Market St., Suite 250, Philadelphia; 24/7 Helpline: 800-272-3900 |
| Penn Memory Center | Virtual support groups, seven-week skills program, The Caring Collective peer-matching | Virtual programs |
| Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA) | PA Caregiver Support Program (education, planning help) | PCA Helpline: 215-765-9040 |
| Suburban Area Agencies on Aging | Local caregiver support and assessments | Bucks: 267-880-5700; Delaware: 610-490-1300; Chester: 610-344-6350; PA Link: 1-800-753-8827 |
The Alzheimer’s Association Delaware Valley Chapter serves 18 counties in the region. You can call their 24/7 Helpline at any time for advice or to find the nearest meeting location.
Penn Memory Center runs virtual caregiver support groups that are open to the public. You do not need to be caring for a Penn Memory Center patient to join.
If you already care for a family member, you might be eligible to get paid for your time. Call New Century Home Care at 215-974-0000 or visit our contact page and select “I am a caregiver” then “I already have a client” to learn more.
How to Choose the Right Support Group
Look for a group that matches your loved one’s specific condition. Dementia caregivers face unique challenges, such as wandering and sundowning. Connecting with others dealing with the same symptoms provides practical advice on home safety and communication.
Decide between virtual and in-person meetings. Virtual groups offer flexibility if you cannot leave your loved one alone. In-person meetings provide a physical space away from the house to focus on yourself.
If you prefer one-on-one conversations, look into peer-matching programs like The Caring Collective. This program pairs you with another caregiver to share experiences directly.
Finding the right fit helps you manage the daily demands of caregiving. Read more about recognizing signs of caregiver stress and when to ask for help.
Additional Financial and Respite Support
Support goes beyond talking with others. The PA Department of Aging runs the PA Caregiver Support Program through local Area Agencies on Aging. In Philadelphia, you apply through PCA.
This program provides education, planning help, and reimbursement for approved caregiving supplies or respite services. The maximum monthly reimbursement is capped at $600, depending on your assigned reimbursement percentage.
To attend a support group, you need someone to watch your loved one. Respite care provides short-term relief for unpaid caregivers. If your loved one is enrolled in the Community HealthChoices (CHC) waiver, their person-centered service plan may cover respite care in the home.
You can also explore general caregiver support options to build a care-team calendar and share duties with family members.
Let us help you find the time to care for yourself. Call New Century Home Care at 215-974-0000 or fill out our contact form, choosing “I am a caregiver” and “I already have a client.”
Frequently asked questions
Are there free support groups for dementia caregivers in Philadelphia?
Yes. The Alzheimer’s Association Delaware Valley Chapter hosts free local caregiver support groups in person, by phone, and via video. The Penn Memory Center also runs virtual support groups open to both their patients’ caregivers and the general public.
Who do I call in Philadelphia for the PA Caregiver Support Program?
In Philadelphia, you apply for the PA Caregiver Support Program through the Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA). You can reach their 24/7 Helpline at 215-765-9040.
What is the Caring Collective?
The Caring Collective is a peer-matching program run by the Penn Memory Center. It connects dementia caregivers with peers for one-on-one support and shared experiences.
Get paid through Medicaid CHC as a New Century caregiver. Weekly pay, $350 signing bonus, free health insurance plan available. Call 215-974-0000.
Apply now