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RESOURCES AND SUPPORT FOR DEMENTIA CARE PARTNERS

Caregivers receive support at Joyful Voices Chorus Events

Support & Resources
for Caregivers

Caring for someone with dementia is its own kind of hard, and it's easy to feel overwhelmed. Beyond the conversation and connection you'll find here with people in the same situation, we've pulled together some practical resources to help guide you along the way.

Day to Day Living with Dementia

This book is a Mayo Clinic Guide for offering care and support to loved ones dealing with a dementia diagnosis. 

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"For over twenty years, Ms. Lunde has made it her mission to improve emotional well-being and quality of life for those living with dementia and their care partners. The book gives you research-backed strategies Ms. Lunde applies in her work every day. Ms. Lunde has worked in dementia care, education, and research for over twenty years as an associate in neurology at the Mayo Clinic Alzheimer's Disease Research Center."

Image of the Living With Dementia book Cover

The Joanne Sherman Forum

Photo of Joanne Sherman, founding artistic director of Joyful Voices Chorus

The Joanne Sherman Forum is an annual event to educate, inspire and provide hope for caregivers and their partners living with early to mid-stage dementia as well as volunteers.


The forum is designed to provide education and information to caregivers, opportunities for their loved ones living with dementia to share their experiences and enjoy fellowship, and training for volunteers who assist those living with dementia and their partners.


The forum was inaugurated in 2026, in honor of Joanne Sherman, founding artistic director of the Joyful Voices Chorus.


Planning is underway for the 2027 Joanne Sherman Forum, with information coming this fall.

Alzheimer's & Dementia - National Resources

  • Alzheimers.gov

    The U.S. government's official portal for Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. Offers information on diagnosis, treatment, care, and research from across federal agencies.

    ADEAR Center

    A service of the National Institute of Aging (NIA) that provides free, evidence-based information, publications, and referrals to local services. Available in English & Spanish. 
    Phone: 800-438-4380

  • Alzheimer's Association - Greater Richmond Chapter

    The Richmond chapter of the leading nonprofit for Alzheimer's care, support, and research. Offers a 24/7 helpline, local chapters, support groups, and educational programs. 
    Phone: 800-272-3900

    Alzheimer's Foundation of America

    Provides care and support services, including a helpline, educational webinars, and resources for families and caregivers.

  • Eldercare Locator

    A free public service that connects older adults and their families to local services such as in-home care, meal delivery, and transportation. Phone: 800-677-1116

    BenefitsCheckUp.org

    A free tool from the National Council on Aging (NCOA) that helps identify benefit programs to help pay for food, medicine, housing, and more.

  • NIA Caregiving Toolkit

    A collection of articles, videos, and publications from the NIA designed to support caregivers with practical advice and information.

    VA Caregiver Support Program

    Provides a support line, coordinators, and resources specifically for caregivers of veterans. Phone: 855-260-3274

  • Solace Health

    A free, Medicare-covered service that pairs you with a dedicated healthcare advocate. Your advocate handles the "homework"—scheduling appointments, coordinating with doctors, managing insurance paperwork, and navigating care options—so you don't have to. Available nationwide via phone, text, or video.

  • ClinicalTrials.gov

    A database of publicly and privately funded clinical studies conducted around the world. Search for Alzheimer's trials actively seeking participants.

Virginia-Specific Resources

  • Richmond Brain Health Initiative (RBHI)

    A VCU program offering free cognitive screenings, dementia lifestyle coaching, caregiver support, and a care navigator to connect patients with local providers. Available via phone or
    in-person at no cost.

    F.A.M.I.L.I.E.S Program

    A free program through the Alzheimer's Association Greater Richmond Chapter offering counseling and support for caregivers over several months. Serves multiple counties and cities in central Virginia.

    Virginia Dementia Case Management

    A state-funded network providing free interdisciplinary care planning and coordinated services through sites like UVA and VCU Health.

  • StrongerMemory

    A free, research-backed program involving 30 minutes of daily reading, writing, and simple math exercises. Available at no cost across Virginia, including in nursing homes and senior centers,
    through a state grant.

    Virginia Memory Project (VMP)

    A free, web-based survey open to all Virginia adults to report on brain health and caregiving. Helps state policymakers prioritize dementia resources. (Note: This is a survey, not a treatment
    program.)

  • Joy Circles

    A new program specifically for families in the early-to-moderate stages who feel traditional adult day services aren't right for them yet. Volunteers lead dementia-friendly activities (art, music, games) while care partners attend a support group in the same building. A bridge before crisis-level care is needed. Launched March 2026 at St. Matthew's Episcopal Church, with plans to expand to 20 locations across Richmond.

    Art for the Journey - OMA Chesterfield

    A free, creative arts program designed to promote connection, self-expression, and well-being for older adults and their care partners. OMA (Older Adults Making Art) offers opportunities to
    explore art in a welcoming, supportive environment.

    Memory Cafe Richmond

    A relaxed, no-agenda social gathering for persons with memory loss and their care partners. Meet others in a non-judgmental environment—no pressure, just connection.
    Meets 3rd Thursdays, 10:30 AM – Noon at VCU Health Hub at 25th.
    Phone: 800-272-3900

    Memory Lane (Montessori-Based Program)

    A unique small-group activity program using Montessori methods, Timeslips storytelling, and Snoezelen multi-sensory stimulation. Designed to engage memory systems often overlooked in
    traditional settings. Small groups for personalized attention.
    Address: 4900 West Marshall St, Richmond
    Phone: 804-355-5717

    Caregiver Support Groups

    Unpaid family caregivers share experiences and coping skills. Multiple locations, including First Union Baptist Church (East End) on 4th Saturdays at 12:00 PM.
    Phone: 804-967-2580

    Circle Center Adult Day Services

    Person-centered adult day program offering support for Alzheimer's, dementia, Parkinson's, and stroke recovery. Weekly participant support groups. Private pay.
    Address: 4900 West Marshall St, Richmond
    Phone: 804-355-5717

  • Alzheimer's Association 24/7 Helpline

    Talk to a dementia expert anytime. Confidential emotional support, crisis assistance, and local referrals in over 200 languages.
    Phone: 800-272-3900

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