DOME Cafe partnered with Silver Chain to launch its pilot dementia-friendly cafes at its Waikiki store on May 28.
Marketing representatives Abby Rohde and Anne Thring said Silver Chain approached the cafe chain with the idea.
“They wanted to find a way to create a partnership to offer a comfortable space for those with dementia,” Ms Rohde said.
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READ NOW“We decided to make it official and structure in breakfast as well and make use of our cafes with their different spaces.
“We can also control the music to that room.
“Here at Waikiki, manager Kelly Wright has been really helpful and organised a room at the side of the cafe that can be closed off. It creates a welcome and safe space so the people don’t get overwhelmed as dementia patients can do.”
Silver Chain client Mary said she thoroughly enjoyed the morning tea.
“This is the first time I have come to this Dome; there is every comfort here,” she said.
“I had a nice cup of tea and the staff were wonderful. I look forward to coming back.”
Waikiki is the first store to run the pilot program, which is hoped will become a regular event.
“It will be a monthly event at first then would like to expand it to other stores down the track,” Ms Thring said.
“We have considered things such as what colours to use and our menus, so if anyone has any trouble they just can point to the picture on the menu.
“We have also worked with our staff so they can appropriately deal with any situation if it arises.
“A lot of the staff at Waikiki actually have first-hand experience with dementia as they have family members with it.
“The way the cafes are designed is perfect as they provide different areas with ones that are more private for those with dementia and their carers.”
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