For many of us, going to the movies brings back a familiar kind of joy: the smell of popcorn, the hush as the lights go down, and the pleasure of sharing a story on the big screen. A good film can make us laugh, stir a memory, spark a conversation, or simply give us a welcome break from the routines and worries of daily life.
That is the idea behind Movies as Medicine, a free monthly film series offered by The Cabot Cinema in Beverly. Held one Monday afternoon each month, the program invites community members to enjoy classic films in an environment designed to encourage comfort, connection, and well-being. In addition, The Cabot opens their doors an hour before the movie starts and offers a Bean Trust Coffee Bar with free tea and coffee to all attendees. Movie attendees are encouraged to come early for warm drinks and a chance to socialize with other classic movie lovers before the show.
For older adults, caregivers, and anyone who could use an uplifting outing, the program offers something valuable: a reason to get out of the house, spend time with others, and enjoy the lasting magic of movies.
Movies have a special way of bringing people together. A familiar song, a favorite actor, or a memorable scene can take us back to another time in our lives. For someone living with memory loss, a film from earlier decades may awaken feelings, memories, or connections that are difficult to access in everyday conversation.
Even when a person does not remember every detail of a movie, they can still enjoy the experience of watching it: the music, humor, colors, faces, and emotions on screen. For caregivers, sharing a movie can create a rare moment of ease—a chance to sit side by side, laugh together, and enjoy something that is not focused on appointments, medications, or daily tasks.
And sometimes, the simple act of attending a screening can be just as meaningful as the movie itself. It offers a chance to put on a favorite sweater, meet a friend, greet familiar faces in the lobby, or continue a conversation over coffee afterward.
The 2026 Movies as Medicine schedule was designed to include films that many audience members know and love. Since January, The Cabot has offered Some Like It Hot, The Pink Panther, Mary Poppins, and My Fair Lady—to name a few—and the autumn movies promise to be just as much fun with a mix of comedy, romance, drama, and a holiday favorite.
Upcoming Movies include:
- Moonstruck on September 14
- The Trouble with Harry on October 19
- Sunset Boulevard on November 9
- Miracle on 34th Street on December 14
There is something for nearly every taste. Some films may bring back memories of seeing them in a theater years ago. Others may be movies people have loved on television but have never had the chance to experience on a large screen.
Caregiving can be deeply meaningful, but it can also become isolating. The responsibilities of care can make it difficult to plan enjoyable activities or maintain social connections. A free, regularly scheduled event such as Movies as Medicine can make it easier to say yes to an outing.
Care partners may find it helpful to keep the visit simple. Arrive early enough to settle in without feeling rushed. Choose seats that make it easy to step out if needed. Focus on enjoyment rather than whether the entire movie is watched from beginning to end. There is no wrong way to take part. The goal is not to create a perfect afternoon, but to enjoy a pleasant one.
Movies as Medicine recognizes something important: well-being is not only about medical care. It is also about laughter, community, comfort, memories, and moments of belonging.
Whether you attend with a spouse, friend, neighbor, family member, or caregiving partner, The Cabot’s free monthly series offers an inviting opportunity to share an experience that can brighten the day.
For the full schedule and free tickets, visit The Cabot’s Movies as Medicine page. To learn more about SeniorCare’s program to support Caregivers, call 978-281-1750.