Places of Greater Baton Rouge DEDICATED SITTERS AND BON JOUR SOCIAL AND LEISURE CENTER
B on Jour Social and Leisure Center stands out as a cozy, inviting space where cognitive stimulation meets heartfelt social connection. For seniors living with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), the cen ter offers more than a daily routine— it provides a pathway to staying active, engaged, and socially vibrant, all in an ef- fort to slow the progression of dementia. Opened in February 2023, Bon Jour targets “golden agers” aging in place solo or with family. The warm center promotes independence and tackles isolation, de- pression, and loneliness common with MCI. Seniors engage in curated ac- tivities that blend fun and evidence-based cognitive exercises, fostering a joyful community where boredom is replaced by purpose.
Bon Jour’s core is the Fit Minds program, a recognized cognitive therapy backed by brain plasticity research. It targets five cognition areas—language, music, spatial awareness, memory, critical thinking, and computation—via personalized sessions. It’s the only facility in Louisiana offering this program. Owner Maria Yiannopou- los, a Certified Dementia Practitioner and Louisiana’s first Certified Fit Minds Coach (2024), brings expertise in man- agement, marketing, and senior care, driving innovation in senior cognitive wellness. “What sets Bon Jour apart is its focus on social and cognitive health in a non-medical, private-pay setting,” Yiannopoulos shares. Activities include Montessori-style elements and Fit Minds coaching, offering enjoyable mental workouts. Daily programs feature group sessions, games, discussions, music, and
interactions that boost confidence, reduce anxiety, and foster connections.
Complementing the center is its sister company, Dedicated Sitters, which pro- vides care at homes, hospitals, assisted living, and nursing homes. With decades of experience in compassionate compan- ionship, Dedicated Sitters specializes in dementia support, offering respite care, transportation, and personalized help. This integrated approach ensures seam- less continuity for families, whether they need daytime socialization at Bon Jour or in-home help through Dedicated Sitters. As dementia diagnoses increase, Bon Jour demonstrates the impact of proactive support for seniors in Baton Rouge and beyond—making “Bon Jour” more than just a greeting, but a commitment.
82 Faces & Places ® | Summer 2026
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