Spending time with animals offers many benefits for us all. Animals help us with our mental, physical and emotional well-being.
Pet therapy is a guided interaction where animals help people cope and recover from physical or mental health problems, or simply enhance emotional wellbeing, bringing laughter and joy.
Pet therapy is popular in care homes across the country and often a regular feature of activity calendars, providing fun and entertainment for residents. Pets are non-judgmental and capable of immense love and affection.
At AgeCare we have seen quite a variety of animals join us, from budgies to rabbits and miniature ponies and on every occasion our residents have enjoyed the interaction and opportunity to meet some very interesting characters!
Let’s look at some of the benefits
Mental Stimulation
Playing with pets is a mentally stimulating activity and a great way to improve verbalisation. Simple actions such as grooming, feeding or playing with animals require focus and attention which helps to keep the mind sharp and engaged.
Meeting new animals is also a good way to gain knowledge, helping memory recall.
Decreasing Anxiety
Some animals, such as dogs, can recognise signs of anxiety that humans can’t. Well-trained and good-mannered dogs can have a calming presence that helps put people at ease.
By alleviating stress and anxiety, pet interaction can help lower blood pressure.
Reducing loneliness and isolation
Like spending time with humans, animals can make people feel less lonely and isolated, which is a common challenge among the elderly. Although residents have company and human interaction in our homes, adding animals to the mix offers another dimension. A sense of comfort, companionship and connection.
The feel-good factor
Interacting with animals can stimulate the release of endorphins, chemicals in the brain that boost mood. This leads to feelings of happiness and contentment.
Improving motor skills
Petting animals and giving them treats helps improve motor skills in older people. Walking a pet uses larger muscles in the legs, arms and torso which helps improve strength and coordination.
Not everyone likes animals but overall introducing a variety of animals into our homes encourages camaraderie, shared experiences, helps boost mood and adds joy. We work hard to offer a range of stimulating activities for our residents, enriching daily life and supporting wellbeing so that those in our care can live as fulfilling a life as possible.
