Pet Therapy is Beneficial for Those with Dementia

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 Jordan Creek, we strongly believe in the power of animals’ unconditional love and periodically bring in therapy animals to visit with our memory care residents.  In addition to our loving, compassionate memory care, we also offer assisted living, and in case you wondered, Jordan Creek is a pet friendly community!  Please visit our website to learn more.   

MorningStar at Jordan Creek proudly provides the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.”  With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for residents amid a beautiful setting.  Please schedule a tour to discover the newest community in the West Des Moines area.

 

Source: caring.com/articles/pet-therapy-dementia