The former talk show host popped up in public last week in her home state of New Jersey, shopping at a holistic wellness store in Newark with her son, Kevin Hunter Jr.

It's the first time we've seen Wendy in public since her dementia diagnosis ... she's smiling in a photo with the shop owner, holding shopping bags and a bunch of different colored roses.

The guy who runs the place told reporters Wendy was alert, aware, sharp, upbeat and bubbly during the visit.

Wendy was reportedly in the market for products to help her with brain fog, mental clarity, stress and circulation ... and the store is hoping she comes back soon for more products tailored to her.

It's a super rare sighting ... Wendy has not been seen in public for well over a year ... and paparazzi last got her in March 2023 in New York City.

Wendy was diagnosed with aphasia and dementia -- the same disorder Bruce Willis has -- in February 2024 ... right before a Lifetime documentary chronicled her recent struggles.