Ask any pet owner and they will tell you the same thing, there is nothing like the face of a furry friend to make you feel better after a tough day. Animals provide an incredible and unconditional love, and their presence alone can reduce a person’s blood pressure, heart rate and level of stress. For years, dogs and other animals have been used in therapeutic settings, and have even had positive effects on patients with dementia.
How Can Animals Help?
Research has shown that when dementia patients are spending time with an animal, they are able to display more interactive behaviors. And even though these behaviors are often directed towards the animal, they still provide the patient with an opportunity to open up and socialize.
Why can individuals with dementia open up more to pets than people? Animals are completely loving and non-judgmental by nature, providing patients with a chance to be themselves without the worry that usually accompanies social interactions. Along with the interactive behaviors they display, dementia patients also show an increase in activity during their visits with dogs and improved eat afterwards.
Advice for Success
Whether you are interested in taking your pet for a visit with your elderly relative, or are interested in finding a therapy dog to visit their elder care facility, there are a few things to keep in mind, including the animal’s demeanor and training. The most important thing to remember is to make the visit a positive one for your loved one with dementia. If they are not interested in the animal or have grown tired, take that as a sign to leave and try again another time. Alzheimers.net recommends morning or early afternoon visits over those during the evening.
For more information, visit Alzheimer’s Project or talk to your loved one’s primary care physician.
BEK Medical offers home medical equipment to help seniors maintain their freedom and live a safe and healthy life. Visit us online or at one of our two Texas locations to learn about the products and services we offer.
