The advent of old age brings diminishment of family and friends, loss of earning power and responsibilities and an increased sense of dependence upon others. Pets can provide an inexpensive method of allaying the negative psychological manifestations of these factors. The older person continues to feel important in caring for the pet. An animal companion provides solace in bereavement, attenuates the pain of social isolation and depression and actively serves a role in preventing social withdrawal and alienation.
The staff at Pacifica Senior Living observed Gizelle, a therapy dog who visited from the Delta Society, stimulating the residents’ responsiveness and giving them individual pleasure also serving as a type of reality therapy. The residents developed a sense of responsibility, self-respect and independence as they assumed varying degrees of caretaking for the animals. Pets were seen as social catalysts, increasing the total number of personal interactions at the facility.
Animals have a way of communicating with humans and humans can respond in ways that the animals are indeed able to understand. Deciphering communication codes that include the body language, facial expression and vocalization of a particular species has resulted in man’s being able to understand what the animal is trying to express. Consequently, there is better rapport, greater trust, and a closer bond between the two species when the animal’s behavior is not misinterpreted by man.
Most animals understand emotion and have compassion. I personally know how compassionate dogs can be based on my experience with my two Schnauzers, Samantha and Molly. Whenever I am not feeling my best they will cuddle up to me, stay at my side and lick my arms and constantly look at me as if to make sure that I feel better.
When animals have compassion and seem to understand how one feels, one has a tendency to communicate with them much more. As a result dogs are usually brought into geriatric setting to help the depressed or non-reactive resident.
Many residents who hardly ever smiled before immediately began smiling when a dog entered their room and nuzzled in their lap. Most of the residents continue their positive reactions while visiting with the dog. In addition, animals have helped emotionally repressed people become more in touch with their emotions by allowing them to express their feelings more openly.
For more information on Pet Therapy, please contact Sheri Morrison or Sheri McCrea at Pacifica Senior Living in Santa Clarita at 661-255-3100 or stop by and visit the “Sheri’s” in person at 24305 West Lyons Avenue.