Pet Therapy for Those with Alzheimer’s and Other Dementia Diseases

Pet therapy (also known as animal-assisted therapy) is used for those with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia to alleviate feelings of boredom, loneliness and helplessness. Dr. William Thomas, a Harvard trained geriatrician and author of “The Eden Alternative,” said bringing in children, plants and animals helps to invigorate long-term care by “incorporating companionship, a sense of purpose, variety and spontaneity into the day-to-day experience of aged care residents.”

While studies show therapy dogs and other animals are useful in stimulating social interaction and easing agitation in dementia patients, experts say it should be done with specially trained pets to get the most benefit. Moreover, the animal should be matched to the setting as well as to the person. Pet therapists say dogs are generally the easiest to train as they are comfortable interacting with a variety of people.    

The benefits of animal therapy to dementia patients include the unconditional love and acceptance animals freely give out as well as the physical touch from the pet contact. Also, these relationships do not require much in the way of communication skills, which are often difficult for someone with Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers say other benefits of pet therapy include an increase in physical activity and an unexpected improvement in a person’s appetite after a visit from an animal as well as an overall calming effect. 

At MorningStar at River Oaks, our goal is to provide the best senior living Houston has to offer, which includes compassionate, loving memory care for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases.  Our unique approach to memory care is designed to nurture, support and respect the essence of the individual regardless of the level of memory loss.  By leveraging the power of art, music, dance, and aromatherapy as well as animals, we strive to heal and comfort our most tender residents.  In addition, MorningStar at River Oaks provides stylish assisted living suites with an array of luxury amenities, wellness programs, and care services for a healthy, engaged lifestyle. Please visit our website for more information. 

MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003.  We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we care for, inspire, and love the residents under our roof. Contact us for more information about the finest senior living Houston has to offer.

Sources: 

verywellhealth.com/how-does-pet-therapy-benefit-people-with-dementia-98677

tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.5172/conu.2011.37.2.222