Dementia patients who need a hand find a paw works better
Pets can have many benefits for those living with dementia. Researchers have long observed that associating with pets is positive for humans and has health benefits, including lowering blood pressure and heart rate and reducing anxiety.
“Many dementia and Alzheimer’s communities around the globe have noted the therapeutic benefits of animals. More and more of these communities are allowing residents to keep pets and are organising therapeutic programmes involving animals,” says Ivan Oosthuizen, CEO of Livewell Group, an organisation that specialises in dementia care.
“Most people with dementia light up in the presence of a dog or cat. Pets can provide a source of warmth and unconditional affection and love. They can have a calming effect and lift the mood,” he says. “Livewell encourages its residents to keep pets and their loved ones can bring the family dog during visits. We also organise therapeutic events and outings involving animals.”
According to Oosthuizen, dementia, which erodes memory and cognitive function, can also cause mood shifts, loneliness, depression, apathy and difficulty communicating with others so patients tend to isolate themselves.
“Quite often our residents who are withdrawing from people find pets less threatening. Many of our resident dogs, for example, bring people together and encourage them to engage in activities, such as a walk.”
Corlia Schutte, occupational therapist at the Village in Bryanston, Johannesburg, says it’s been shown that engaging with a pet reduces levels of the stress-inducing hormone cortisol, while boosting the feel-good hormone serotonin. In other words, pets have a positive physiological and psychological effect on people. – Citizen reporter