The Intergenerational Center at Temple University and the Penn Memory Center (PMC) jointly coordinate Time Out, a companionship and mentorship program first launched in 1986 at Temple University. By engaging college students and matching them with older adults to provide caring companionship, and meaningful engagement, we seek to mitigate isolation and preserve this vulnerable population’s dignity, independence, and overall quality of life. Furthermore, this respite allows caregivers a small break from their duties, allowing them to take care of other important tasks and avoid burnout. In 2011, Time Out Received national recognition from Generations United, a national Program of Distinction, a designation that celebrates outstanding intergenerational programs.

Time Out facilitates meaningful, in-home engagement through intergenerational companionship by connecting older adult individuals with trained college students. This includes conversation, reading, and light activities at the home. It does not include personal care — such as bathing, dressing, feeding, or toileting — nor administering medications or therapies. While private respite care may cost more than $20 an hour, Time Out care providers will be available for $8.50 an hour and up to 10 hours per week.

Current students interested in providing respite service at local universities and colleges in the Philadelphia area:

• Complete an student information profile on this brief form: Connect Here

Family caregivers and social service agency professionals in need of respite service:

• Complete an caregiver information profile on this brief form: Connect Here