07/03/2026
Here at Dowda Senior Consultants we are BIG HUGE fans of the Circle Center Adult Day Services!!! We want EVERYONE to know about the amazing support they provide to families on the dementia journey. Today, we'd especially love to spread the word about their new JOY CIRCLE program - A Social Engagement and Respite Program for Families Navigating Memory Loss!!
Joy Circle is a free, volunteer-led social engagement and caregiver support program for families navigating dementia or memory loss.
Joy Circle provides a caring, welcoming, and safe environment where participants can enjoy music, art, conversation, brain games, gentle movement, simple activities, and new friendships. At the same time, caregivers can participate in a support group session, enabling them to receive a restorative break, make connections with others who understand the journey, all while knowing their loved one is engaging in social activities with others.
Joy Circle is grounded in Circle Center’s 50 years of experience supporting individuals with dementia and their families. Each location is hosted by a local church, with training and support from Circle Center.
Who Attends Joy Circle?
Adults who:
Are living with early to mid-stage dementia or memory loss
Are able to enjoy activities in a small group setting
Are mobile independently or with an assistive device
Can manage bathroom needs independently
Enjoy music, conversation, games, and simple hands-on activities
Joy Circle is a social program, not a medical or personal-care service. Volunteers cannot administer medications but can provide reminders.
What Happens During a Joy Circle Session?
Each two-hour gathering usually includes:
A warm welcome and fellowship
Gentle seated movement
Music and familiar sing-alongs
Brain games and conversation
Reminiscence and storytelling
Purposeful tasks (setting tables, sorting, simple projects)
Snack and social connection
A brief optional spiritual reflection
Our goal is simple: to help each Friend feel safe, valued, engaged, and included.
These Joy Circles are free, and are currently offered at St. Matthews Episcopal, Friendship Baptist, and Trinity United Methodist. If you are interested in learning more, please contact the location most convenient for you.
And if YOUR CHURCH might be interested in starting a Joy Circle, please reach out to the Circle Center and see if it might be a fit for you!!