Do Pets Benefit People 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. 

MorningStar Memory Care at Bear Creek is devoted to providing assisted living for dementia patients, and we could not agree more about the benefits of pets.  Our community is pet friendly and we often have visiting animals to our community.  Our care leverages not only the power of animals but also music, dance, art, and aromatherapy to heal and comfort residents.

Please visit our website to learn about our exceptional community.  As soon as you step through our door, you will discover a warm and loving atmosphere that feels like a true home.

MorningStar at Bear Creek brings a unique vision to senior living with our mission statement “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. We are dedicated to creating a true home within an ideal setting and invite you to schedule a tour to see firsthand the best assisted living for dementia patients in Colorado Springs. 

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