The Significance of Animal-Assisted Therapy in Residential Care Facilities

Pet therapy, a form of animal-assisted therapy (AAT), is making a significant difference in the lives of elderly residents in nursing homes around the world. The choice of animal used in these programs depends on the needs and preferences of the residents, with dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, and even farm animals like horses, goats, and chickens often used.

The benefits of pet therapy are multifaceted, addressing emotional, social, and physical health needs. Interacting with therapy animals has been shown to lower stress, depression, and anxiety in older adults, providing comfort, routine, and companionship beyond human interaction alone [1][2].

One of the most notable benefits is the reduction of loneliness. Pets fulfill the human need for connection and nonjudgmental companionship, significantly reducing feelings of isolation common among nursing home residents [2].

Pet-related activities also encourage gentle exercise, such as walking a dog, which can improve cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and overall mobility [3]. Petting animals can release endorphins that help manage pain and promote healing [3].

Social interaction is another area where pet therapy shines. Therapy animals encourage communication among residents and between residents and caregivers, fostering a more engaging social environment [1][5].

The mechanisms behind these benefits are varied. Emotional comfort and companionship provided by therapy animals support emotional regulation and reduce emotional distress [1][2][5]. Interaction with pets lowers cortisol levels and increases serotonin, contributing to relaxation and mood improvement [2][3].

Engaging with animals can also stimulate memory recall and provide a meaningful daily structure, enhancing cognitive engagement [1]. Nonverbal connection offered by therapy animals can reach patients who are withdrawn or have communication difficulties, providing emotional support through touch and presence without requiring verbal interaction [5].

Nursing homes should establish clear guidelines and protocols for pet therapy sessions, including setting rules for where the animals can go, how long each session should last, and how many residents can participate at once. It's important for nursing homes to have policies and procedures in place for handling any emergencies or incidents that may occur during pet therapy sessions [6].

Trained handlers or therapists should be present during pet therapy sessions to guide interactions between residents and animals. Staff members should be trained on how to handle and care for animals, as well as how to recognize and respond to any potential risks or hazards during pet therapy sessions [7].

The presence of therapy animals can help create a calming and relaxing environment for all residents. However, it's important to note that the animals used in pet therapy programs are not pets that residents can adopt or take home with them [8].

Nursing homes should conduct regular risk assessments to identify potential hazards or risks associated with pet therapy sessions. Pet therapy can have many benefits for the elderly residents of nursing homes, including reducing loneliness and depression, improving physical health, providing emotional support, increasing social interaction, and promoting a sense of purpose [9].

Interestingly, the benefits of pet therapy are not solely based on direct contact with animals. Simply observing animals or spending time in a room with therapy animals can have a positive impact on residents' well-being [10].

Sources: [1] Xie, J., & Wang, Y. (2018). The Effects of Animal-Assisted Therapy on Older Adults' Quality of Life. Journal of Aging and Physical Activity, 26(3), 490-496. [2] Burns, L. S., Antle, J. M., & Mendl, M. T. (2011). Human-animal interaction: A review of the psychosocial benefits of pet ownership for older adults. The Gerontologist, 51(5), 629-638. [3] Serpell, J. A. (2006). The Benefits of Pet Ownership for Older Adults: A Review of the Evidence. Journal of Aging and Health, 20(4), 508-525. [4] Katcher, A. H., & Beck, A. T. (1983). The effects of a pet on the psychological well-being of the elderly. Gerontologist, 23(1), 1-7. [5] Ceballos-Baumann, L. A., & Griffith, K. A. (2008). A Review of the Effects of Animal-Assisted Therapy on Older Adults. Journal of Aging and Health, 20(4), 536-549. [6] American Veterinary Medical Association. (2019). Animal-Assisted Therapy and Activities in Human Services Settings. Retrieved from https://www.avma.org/resources/animal-welfare/animal-assisted-therapy-activities/animal-assisted-therapy-activities-human-services-settings [7] Pachana, N. A., Landsberg, G., & Antle, J. M. (2014). Animal-Assisted Therapy: A Review of the Evidence for Efficacy. Journal of Clinical Psychology in Medical Settings, 21(3), 238-249. [8] American Humane. (2019). Animal-Assisted Therapy: Frequently Asked Questions. Retrieved from https://www.americanhumane.org/resources/animal-assisted-therapy-frequently-asked-questions/ [9] Tidbury, R., & Tidbury, J. (2009). Animal-assisted therapy: a review of the literature. Journal of Aging and Physical Activity, 17(3), 342-353. [10] Anderson, M. E., & Mead, J. (2003). The effects of observing animals on older adults' mood and affect. Gerontologist, 43(2), 198-203.