Research has shown that people with dementia
benefit physically, emotionally, socially and mentally from a connection
between humans and animals. Whether they
are a furry, feathery or scaly friend, it appears that animals have the ability
to trigger memories of a person’s past animals and to help them feel more at
ease.
In numerous studies, therapeutic
animals have drastically improved dementia symptoms and helped to combat anxiety,
agitation, irritability, depression and loneliness. Experts say that as you “cuddle, stroke and
talk to an animal, your body releases endorphins as well as other feel-good
hormones such as oxytocin, prolactin and dopamine. This helps lower blood
pressure, relieve pain, and foster a sense of calm and joy.”
Many people suffering from Alzheimer’s
and other forms of dementia lose the ability to initiate and maintain social
relationships as the disease progresses.
Dr. Mara Baun, a professor and associate dean for research
at the UNMC College of Nursing has extensively studied the psychological
benefits pets provide to those with Alzheimer's disease. In her research, she found that when a
therapy dog visited patients with dementia, residents were less “disoriented,
wandered less and were less likely to be aggressive.”
Dr. Baun says that dogs are the
classic example of an animal’s unconditional love and therapy dogs offer a
missing element of physical and social contact.
In fact therapy dogs will approach a resident with dementia regardless
of their physical or mental deterioration.
They provide a distraction from the person’s agitation as the dogs allow
the person to pet, hug and interact with them.
At MorningStar
at RidgeGate, we strongly believe in the power of
animals’ unconditional love and our memory care leverages the power of animals
as well as music, dance, art, and aromatherapy to heal and comfort residents. In
addition to our loving, compassionate memory care, we also offer independent
and assisted living, and in case you wondered, RidgeGate is a
pet friendly community! Please visit our
website to learn more.
The unique mission statement of MorningStar at
RidgeGate, “to honor, to serve, to invest,” sets us apart from other senior
living communities. Our foundation is built upon honoring God, valuing
all seniors, and investing in staff with a felt calling to serve. Dedicated
to creating a real home for residents within a beautiful setting, we encourage
you to learn more about our exceptional community.
Source:
caring.com/articles/pet-therapy-dementia
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