Dining out should be a stress-free and enjoyable experience for everyone, including those living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. The Outer Banks is home to several restaurants that go the extra mile to create a welcoming atmosphere for individuals and families facing cognitive challenges.
For those who are in need of a dementia friendly restaurant on the Outer Banks, they are now being acknowledged for their specific type of service they provide through the Outer Banks Dementia Task Force.
What is Dementia?
According to Medhelp.org, dementia is not a disease in itself, but rather a blanket term for a set of symptoms relating to loss of brain function. These symptoms may include:
- Memory loss
- Personality changes and loss of social skills
- Language problems like forgetting the names of familiar objects
- Behavioral problems like agitation, delusions and hallucination
- Flat mood, loss of interest in things previously enjoyed
- Difficulty solving problems and performing tasks that used to come easily
According to the World Health Organization: “Worldwide, around 50 million people have dementia. And every year, there are nearly 10 million new cases.”
What to Expect from Dementia-Friendly Restaurants
- Calm & Quiet Environments – These restaurants offer quieter seating options to help minimize overstimulation and confusion.
- Patient & Supportive Staff – Trained to provide understanding, patience, and flexibility, making dining easier for individuals who may need extra time or assistance.
- Simple, Easy-to-Read Menus – Many places offer menus with clear fonts, fewer options, and simple descriptions to reduce decision fatigue.
- Accessible Layouts – Spacious seating, well-lit areas, and easy-to-navigate spaces help create a comfortable dining experience.
- Community Commitment – These restaurants are dedicated to inclusivity, ensuring that everyone, no matter their cognitive abilities, feels welcome.
The Best Dementia-Friendly Restaurants on the Outer Banks
Accessible Establishments on the Outer Banks
Easing life for both dementia patients and their caregivers. That’s what Jan Collins is here for.
Her and The Dementia Task Force on the Outer Banks are working hand-in-hand with area restaurants to become “Dementia Friendly.” So far, according to Collins, there are 12 current dementia friendly restaurants, with many more in the pipeline.
Training Requirements for Restaurants
The training to become “dementia friendly” is fairly simple, and requires a minimum amount of time. Per Collins, the training only takes about 20 minutes or so. “Patients peripheral vision may be poor.
Therefore, we work with the staff in things such as maintaining eye contact. Similarly, we suggest limiting choices for the patient. Often dementia patients become overwhelmed with too many options. They become agitated and confused.” Collins continues, “We train servers on how to keep things simple. We do this with role playing exercises.”
Look for the Purple Seahorse
Normally the organization likes to train 75% of the restaurant staff. Because of this, the time period the task force aims for in their training is April or May. This is when most of the summer help is in place. Once completed, The Purple Seahorse signifies the establishment as being “dementia friendly.”
Restaurants are not the only facilities the task force is working with in becoming “dementia friendly.” Collins continues, “The Outer Banks Hospital is the first hospital in North Carolina to be certified. We worked with them to achieve this status.”
The training doesn’t stop with the hospital and restaurants however. “We are also working with doctor offices and pharmacy staffs in becoming certified,” says Collins.
The Outer Banks Visitor Center, who themselves will be become “Dementia Friendly,” has a complete list of the participatory restaurants.
The Outer Banks Demential Friendly Coalition is a good place to go for information as well.
Tips for a Smooth Dining Experience
While many restaurants are doing their part to make their dining experiences accessible to all, use our tips for dining out with dementia patients to ensure a smooth outting.
- Choose Off-Peak Hours – Visit during quieter times to avoid crowds and loud noise.
- Call Ahead – Some restaurants may offer specific accommodations if requested in advance.
- Opt for Familiar Foods – Sticking to simple, recognizable dishes can help ease anxiety around ordering.
- Allow Extra Time – Give yourself plenty of time to enjoy the meal without feeling rushed.
- Bring Comfort Items – A favorite sweater, fidget item, or music on headphones can help reduce stress in a new environment.