Pet Therapy for Seniors
Com-paw-ssionate Care for Aging Loved Ones
Pet therapy for seniors, also known as Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT), is a technique that uses animals to interact with seniors for numerous reasons that help improve their quality of life.
Key Benefits of Pet Therapy for Seniors
- Pet companionship reduces depression, loneliness, stress, and anxiety by providing companionship and promoting feelings of relaxation.
- Alzheimer’s patients who have pets in their home are less likely to suffer outbursts of anxiety or agitation.
- One multi-state study found that medication costs dropped an average of $3.80 per patient, per day, in new nursing home facilities where animals were included in the environment.
At 1Heart Caregiver Services, our mission is to enrich lives through compassionate, dependable care that makes daily life easier for families.
We offer pet therapy for seniors as part of our home care and elderly companionship services for families and facilities.
Find Personalized Pet Therapy Services For Your Loved One
1Heart coordinates animal visits alongside the broader care plan. We offer a unique approach to animal-assisted care.
We understand how important it is for interactions to be safe, comfortable, and calming for your aging loved one. Our caregivers are not just bringing a pet. They’re trained to observe the senior’s response and facilitate proper interactions.
1Heart offers personalized programs for different senior care needs. We match the right pet and activities to the needs of the elderly so they can truly enjoy the benefits of pet therapy.
For facilities, we offer partnerships to integrate pet therapy for seniors, a high-value amenity that many residents and their families love. At 1Heart Caregiver Services, we take it upon ourselves to continuously find ways to help lighten the load off your shoulders and team up with you on your commitment to improving the quality of life of your residents.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Pet Therapy for the Elderly?
It’s a guided interaction with trained animals often supported by caregivers.
What happens during animal-assisted therapy?
During pet therapy for seniors at 1Heart:
- The family schedules an animal visit for their aging loved one
- A professional caregiver brings an animal matched to the needs of the senior
- The senior and the pet take part in various activities while the caregiver supervises interactions
What are the activities for animal-assisted therapy?
Activities include brushing, petting, walking, quiet companionship, and playing.
What animals are used for animal-assisted therapy (AAT) for seniors?
Most cats and dogs, but other pets may be involved, depending on the needs of the senior.
Is pet therapy safe for seniors?
Yes. Pet therapy for seniors at 1Heart uses trained and vaccinated animals that are temperament-tested. We observe high hygiene standards. Our trained professional caregivers supervise the process to ensure the safety and comfort of your loved one.
Is pet therapy right for my loved one?
The benefits of pet therapy are suitable for seniors:
- With memory conditions
- Experiencing social isolation or depression
- Recovering from illness or surgery
- Who were lifelong pet owners
- With limited mobility
Does animal-assisted therapy help with dementia?
Yes. Pet therapy for seniors is a valuable tool in Alzheimer’s and dementia care, shown to reduce agitation and anxiety. Pets offer connection, joy, and safety.
Book a Furry Friend Visit
Ready to bring your aging loved one the love and joy of a pet? Call 1Heart Caregiver Services today at (844) 814-3278 or fill out our online contact form to learn the benefits of pet therapy in your care plan and book a furry friend visit. Experience the com-paw-ssionate difference today!
Resources
Soares. C. Pet Therapy: Huggable Healthcare Workers. DiscoveryHealth.com
“The Pet Connection”. Mind, Mood, Memory 2.8 (August 2006) University of Delaware Library.