The Benefits of Pet Therapy in a Care Home
There are many care services across the UK and Scotland, yet Springvale Care Home in East Dunbartonshire really understand the importance of animal and pet therapy within care homes. Regular animal interaction can have both immediate and long lasting affects on ones mental and physical health. We’re always looking at ways we can bring in more pet therapy and in this blog, we’re going to take a look at what pet therapy actually is and the benefits it has on older people.
What is Pet Therapy?
Animal or pet therapy is a guided interaction between a person and a trained animal, it’s a type of complimentary or alternative therapy which should enhance but not replace other treatments. This activity and/or treatment is provided in a selection of settings, from community care, nursing homes, residential care, rehabilitation centres and hospices.
Therapy animals can vary from small domesticated pets to larger animals, here’s a list of some animals that can be used:
- Dogs
- Cats
- Rabbits
- Guinea Pigs
- Cockatoos & Other Birds (Parrots etc)
- Reptiles
- Horses, Alpacas & Other Farm Animals
The Benefits of Pet Therapy in a Residential Care Home in Lennoxtown
Research has shown that when animals visit a care home and residents spend time with animals it can boost their general health and wellbeing, reducing negative feelings. This type of therapy uses animals as a form of treatment and companionship, boosting social interaction, cognitive abilities and social interaction. Residents also get entertainment, affection and joy. There are many more benefits to pet therapy…
Reduces Social Isolation & Improves Social Wellbeing
As we get older, we can start to feel isolated, especially from friends and family members, which can lead to a lack of motivation and a sense of purpose, possibly leading to someone feeling depressed.
Did you know, there is natural healing which comes from interacting with animals? It continues to provide a positive effect on many, especially those living in a care home. Within the moment, people receive unconditional affection from animals, with the benefits lasting long after the therapy session has ended, residents are left talking about and sharing their experiences with one another.
Increases Mental Stimulation
Therapy pets provide unconditional love which helps people build social skills, self-esteem and self-confidence, it can aid with cognitive skills an memory with those living with dementia, allowing them to possibly remember their own pets name or breed; bringing back some lovely, happy memories.
Improve Wellbeing & Mental Health
The interactions with the animals lead to benefits all over the mind and body, from reducing stress and providing more of a balanced emotional and mental state.
Increase Levels of Oxytocin & Boost Moods
Oxytocin, serotonin and dopamine will increase within your body whilst the bad cortisol decreases, meaning residents will feel instantly better.
Lower Blood Pressure
Did you know, an animals presence can lower blood pressure? Animals have a calming affect which helps relieve anxiety, enhancing overall cardiovascular health.
Animal Therapy at Springvale
As care specialists, we understand the positive effects that animal therapy can have within care homes and with our wide selection of facilities and activities, we are able to create a care home in Lennoxtown where residents feel safe, loved and excited for their day ahead. This year we have had some visits from some furry friends which have left our residents and staff smiling. One of our visits was from our pet therapy dog Marley, she is the most welcomed visitor within our home and provides great comfort and joy to the residents with plenty of entertainment and antics. He loves to wonder around the home, making his presence known, leaving smiles and laughter fill the rooms of our home.
We strive to create a homely environment here at Springvale and regularly seek input from our residents as to what they want to do and other activities they might want to experience. Both our staff members and residents love spending quality time with the animals; it’s already proven to be a positive activity which everyone looks forward to.
Life at Springvale Care Home
Springvale Care Home Lennoxtown Care Home, luxurious and purpose-built. We offer an all-inclusive way of living with en-suite accommodation for up to 96 residents. Our residents receive outstanding levels of Dementia Care, Respite Care, Nursing Care and Palliative Care from our expert, compassionate team. Our care home is built on the philosophy that our residents deserve to lead a fulfilling life as our professional staff pride themselves of providing a supportive and caring environment where everyone can enjoy an independent and meaningful life each and everyday.
We’re happy to say that we give our residents an abundance of opportunities to make the most out of every day. Whether they wish to explore our beautiful gardens, socialise with friends and family, enjoy arts and craft sessions or explore the surroundings of our home, with stunning views of Campsie Fells; there is something for everyone to enjoy. We have a team of activity coordinators who go above and beyond to create weekly programmes which are bursting with games and activities which are designed to put a smile on our resident’s faces.
If you’re looking for a care home in Lennoxtown for yourself or a loved one or even discuss the benefits of pet therapy further, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team today and we can discuss the available care options.
