Home Press Releases Pooches prove therapeutic for residents with dementia
ANIMAL therapy sessions at a Skelmersdale care home have seen pet pooches paying a visit to the elderly residents.
Aaron Crest Care Home, in Skelmersdale, invited dog owners to bring their pets into the home to meet the residents and help those with dementia.
The sessions have proven to reduce stress and anxiety as well as provide a source of positive, nonverbal communication.
Staff with dogs came in on their days off and members of the local community also brought their dogs along to the home, on Tanhouse Road.
Adrienne Ratcliffe, home manager at Aaron Crest Care Home, said: “We put out an appeal to dog owners after hearing about the therapeutic effect the animals can have on those living with dementia.
“We had a fantastic response and we’ve had some lovely visits from friendly, loving pet pooches who have had an amazing impact on the residents’ wellbeing.
“We’d like to thank everyone who has taken part and brought their pets to the home. Hopefully we can organise more visits in future.”