Pet Therapy 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 help those with dementia in a number of ways. In numerous studies, therapeutic animals have drastically improved dementia symptoms and helped to elevate mood, decrease behavioral problems, improve nutrition, increase social interaction, and provide a calming effect.  

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 has extensively studied the psychological benefits pets provide to those with Alzheimer's disease. Her research found therapy animals “help decrease the symptoms of aggression and help increase socialization. The presence of a therapy pet helped decreased symptoms of "sundowning" in Alzheimer's patients.”

Dr Baun's sundowning study found that a therapy dog can provide “missed physical contact to a patient with Alzheimer's disease. It matters little to the pet if the person's body has deteriorated or if the stories are repeated over and over.”  The animal’s complete acceptance and non-verbal communication can be soothing for patients. In addition, animals offer unconditional love and endless forgiveness. 

At MorningStar of Fountain Hills, 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, MorningStar is a pet friendly community!   If you are looking for one of the best senior living communities Fountain Hills AZ has to offer, we encourage you to visit our website to learn why our residents are proud to call MorningStar “home.”

At MorningStar of Fountain Hills, we exemplify the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve…all of which contributes to creating a true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. Please call to schedule a visit to see firsthand one of the finest senior living communities Fountain Hills AZ has to offer.

Sources: verywellhealth.com/how-does-pet-therapy-benefit-people-with-dementia-98677
chron.com/homes/senior_living-/article/Pets-increase-quality-of-life-for-Alzheimer-s-5759679.php