Purple Haven Definition for Caregivers

Dining out, shopping or going to the bank are excursions most people take for granted, but these “routine” trips can be challenging for you, a caregiver when bringing your family member with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia with you.  Alzheimer’s Family Services of Greater Beaufort (AFSGB) is changing that.

The Purple Haven Project will train and educate staff at northern Beaufort County restaurants and businesses on how to interact with a person with dementia.  By alleviating some of the stress involved when caregivers bring their family members to these establishments, AFSGB aims to make it easier for them to get out into the community.

Staff at participating establishments will learn tips on how to interact with your family member who has Alzheimer’s disease, making you feel comfortable while out in the community.

Businesses that complete the training will receive a window decal indicating they are a Purple Haven establishment. AFSGB will provide you with cards to hand to restaurant hostesses, bank tellers and retail store clerks alerting them that someone with you is living with Alzheimer’s disease.  A list of Purple Haven establishments can be found here on our website.  Be sure to look for the Purple Haven logo decal in the window of local establishments to know you are going to a place that will treat you and your family member with dignity and respect. Patience, understanding or assistance from an employee can make a big difference in the outcome of an outing.  These simple actions are powerful opportunities to create more good memories. This project is funded in part by the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America.