The Seoul government announced on the 6th that it will open two 'Green Memory Cafes' operated by patients with early-onset dementia in Dobong and Yangcheon districts. Early-onset dementia is a form of dementia that affects individuals under the age of 65. Patients will manage a smart farm, and manufacture and sell health teas and green juices at the cafes.
Patients with early-onset dementia can easily lose their jobs at an early age and become socially isolated. Particularly, because of the stigma of having dementia at a young age, they often become withdrawn. The Seoul government explained that working at the cafe will help them regain confidence and participate in social activities.
The Seoul government introduced the first Green Memory Cafe in Gangseo district last year. As a result, there was an improvement in the self-efficacy and depression of dementia patients, and a reduction in the caregiving burden on families. Kim Tae-hee, the head of Seoul's Citizen Health Bureau, said, “We will create a support system for patients and families.”