Donning denim for dementia
By Ellen O'Brien
Staff at one of Cork’s most popular shopping centres had a ‘jean-ious’ idea and donned their favourite denims recently for a great cause.
Mahon Point Shopping Centre hosted the Alzheimer Society of Ireland’s (ASI) Denim Day for Dementia. Now in its sixth year, the popular fundraising campaign aims to unite communities to support families living with dementia, by wearing denim to raise awareness and funds for the ASI.
The staff at Mahon Point supported the day by donning their denims and were joined by clients from the ASI Bessboro Day Care Centre, and ASI staff.
In November 2023, the shopping centre became the first dementia-inclusive one in Ireland when they earned the Dementia Inclusive Community Friends of ASI accreditation.
The management, staff of Mahon Point, and the retail staff across the stores in the centre completed dementia-inclusive training provided by the ASI.
Adam Isherwood, Operations Manager at Mahon Point said: “Mahon Point Shopping Centre was delighted to host the Alzheimer Society of Ireland. In November, we became Ireland's first dementia-friendly shopping centre.”
He added that “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. By hosting a Denim Day, they reinforce their commitment to creating a space for people living with dementia and their families with their hospitality today”.
She extended her gratitude to the staff and retailers who participated in the fundraiser: “I want to offer my sincere thanks on behalf of the Society to the management, staff, and stores in Mahon Point that took part in Denim Day today.”
An estimated 7, 509 people in Cork and 64,000 people nationwide live with dementia, with one in 10 diagnoses occurring in individuals under the age of 65.
In order to maintain their supports the ASI wants to raise €3.6 million this year.