At Your Aged Care at Home, we believe in promoting the independence and dignity of all individuals and to improve their overall physical, mental and social well-being. One of the ways we want to achieve this is by providing pet therapy services to our clients. In-home care means enabling more choices for you and your loved ones in the comfort of their home. Unlike the flexibility of caring at home, aged care facilities may have some limitations in allowing pets in their premises.
What is pet therapy?
Pet therapy, or animal-assisted therapy, involves guided interaction between individuals and pets. Interaction with pets have now been introduced as a form of therapy due to the positive benefits it has towards the community, in particular to older peoples and dementia patients.
What are the benefits of pet therapy?
Research has found that individuals who have interactions with pets are generally happier and healthier, both mentally and physiologically. Pet therapy stimulates positive emotions and boosts activity and engagement as individuals interact with our furry friends. It also improves fine motor skills, which increases exercise and movement. Pet therapy then becomes a great method of re-engaging those who might have difficulty responding to other forms of therapy.
Animals can be soothing to be around with, which can create a sense of comfort that helps with reducing loneliness, anxiety and depression. Pets can help a person with dementia alleviate stress and confusion, provide mental stimulation, and help individuals communicate and articulate themselves better as they feel more comfortable in the company of their four-legged friends.
Pet therapy services provided by Your Aged Care at Home to our lovely clients.
In summary, pet therapy has proven to be a popular method of diversional therapy for seniors as a result of the physical and cognitive benefits it has to individuals.
Physical benefits:
improving fine motor skills
increasing willingness to join activities and exercise
improving strength and balance
improving independent movement
reducing the risk of cardiovascular issues with exercise
Cognitive benefits:
improved socialisation and interaction with others
elevated moods and sense of purpose
reduced feelings of loneliness and isolation
improved interpersonal and communication skills
reduced symptoms of depression, PTSD and anxiety
For more information about pet therapy and how we can provide pet therapy services for you, visit our contact page and we can assist you in providing what you need.