With a broad cross section of people from different backgrounds who live in our aged care homes, Royal Freemasons is always exploring ways to help them stay connected and enjoy an improved quality of life. We offer creative and entertaining activities that encourage our residents to join in and have some fun.
A special visit every two months is well-anticipated and the arrival of pet therapists and their dog at Royal Freemasons Sale always brings on a lovely day for all.
Like their trainers, the friendly dogs and pups are happy, affectionateand good-natured. Straight away, residents who love animals show their delight at the visits by these furry friends. Even residents who prefer their privacy showed a much more excited, enthusiastic and ebullient side.
Dog therapy is scientifically proven to benefit older people. The physical interaction reduces blood pressure, provides tactile stimulation, assists with pain management, motivates movement and walking and stimulates the senses.
Happy Royal Freemasons Sale residents enjoying a pat!
Socially, a visit with a pet provides a positive mutual topic for discussion, promotes greater self-esteem and wellbeing, and focused interaction with others.
And for the Home itself, a pet in a facility decreases the feeling of a sterile environment, lifts the group’s mood and continues the happy vibe even after the visit.
“After all the patting, fussing and joy of that day, undoubtedly, our event was a blast,” said Lifestyle Coordinator Pamela Bruder.
Pets have been shown to increase quality of life for their owners and those who interact with them. In an aged care setting, therapy pets can be especially beneficial for residents who may have left their pets behind or have happy memories of pets, and offer physical, social, mental and cognitive benefits.