Local mobility shop Snowdrop Independent Living is encouraging businesses in Penarth to make accommodations to become more dementia friendly.

Shops that are dementia-friendly support, understand and respect those affected by the disease.

Sophia Wu, of Snowdrop Independent Living, previously worked as a carer of people with dementia, and learned that it affects everyone in different ways.

"Understanding everyone as an individual and their individual needs is key to supporting people with dementia," she said.

"I am proud to be part of the Snowdrop team as I have seen our retail staff have so much passion and consideration when providing customer services across all seven branches."

For over 20 years, Snowdrop Independent Living has been keeping Penarth moving with their unique range of mobility and home comfort products.

They are also proud to be a Dementia Friendly Business, often serving customers who have the disease and ensuring they adapt their services to make them feel welcome and secure.

"For example, when we process a mobility claim, someone who is suffering from dementia might have difficulties locating their paperwork," said Sophia.

"Our staff are trained to help them over the phone or getting family members involved in order to successfully complete their application.

"We have also dealt with customers who have trouble remembering their appointment to have their stair lift or scooters serviced; this is why we have service stickers on the products. Stickers are great visual reminder for the user and the family members.

Sophia explained how important access to local Penarth shops is to Snowdrop customers.

"We speak to a lot of people who no longer wish to drive or not feeling safe to drive due to mobility," she said.

"Having access to the local high street is extremely important because the local high street is where they do most of the shopping for essential items such as food and day-to-day things.

"People with dementia might be worried about taking a little bit longer to communicate what they want or sorting out the change when paying.

"When dealing with customers with dementia, we encourage shop staff to have an understanding of how it affects them, and be kind and patient."

To learn more about the services offered at Snowdrop Independent Living, Penarth Nub News sponsors, click here