Pictures: Cork shopping centre staff don their denim to support dementia

MAHON Point Shopping Centre staff recently donned their denims in support of The Alzheimer Society of Ireland (ASI).

The centre hosted The Alzheimer Society of Ireland’s ‘Denim Day for Dementia’ on March 1.

Staff wore their denims and were joined by clients from The ASI Bessboro Day Care Centre and ASI staff.

Now in its sixth year, the popular fundraising campaign aims to unite communities to support families living with dementia.

Mahon Point made history in November 2023, becoming the first dementia-inclusive shopping centre in Ireland and earning the Dementia Inclusive Community Friends of ASI accreditation. The management and staff of Mahon Point Shopping Centre and retail staff across the stores completed dementia-inclusive training provided by The ASI which allowed Mahon Point to provide a welcoming and positive shopping environment to people living with dementia and their families.

The ASI said it must raise €3.6 million this year to maintain crucial supports and services, including the national helpline, family carer training, social clubs, and Alzheimer’s cafés. This year’s campaign targets a fundraising goal of €50,000 to support families nationwide living with dementia.

Operations Manager at Mahon Point, Adam Isherwood, said: “Mahon Point Shopping Centre is delighted to host the Alzheimer Society of Ireland today, in November, we became Ireland’s first Dementia-friendly shopping centre. Together with our retail stores, we aim to create a space where every individual can navigate with ease and dignity, ensuring inclusivity for all.” 

The ASI Head of Fundraising, Mairéad Dillon, said: “We’re honoured that Mahon Point opened their doors to host a Denim Day for Dementia. Last year they became the first dementia-inclusive shopping centre in Ireland, and by hosting Denim Day, they reinforce their commitment to creating a space for people living with dementia and their families with their hospitality today.”