Pet Therapy Improves Quality of Life at Glenbrook Lodge

Behavour management specialist, Nicole Butt, sits with robotics cat
by SalvationArmy.ca
Categories: Articles, Feature, Mobile, Newswire
Share:

Most pet owners know that being in the presence of an animal is soothing and can bring much joy. But for people with dementia, the interaction with a pet means so much more.

“At The Salvation Army’s Glenbrook Lodge, a long-term care facility in St. John’s, N.L., pet therapy is improving the quality of life for people who experience behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia,” says Nicole Butt, behaviour management specialist.

Whether it’s a big, mellow dog or a robotics cat, the pets who visit Glenbrook Lodge are therapeutic for individuals living with dementia.

“Dementia is the shrinking of the brain and loss of connections,” says Nicole. “This disconnect can cause anxiety, depression, social isolation, physical and verbal aggression. These symptoms typically impact 90 percent of the dementia population.”

“We want to help individuals who struggle with dementia in a therapeutic way.”

Animal-assisted therapy is provided by trained, certified pets and their handlers and research shows that cuddling, stroking or playing with a pet significantly improves the mental, social, emotional and physical symptoms associated with dementia.

“I’ve witnessed people wandering the halls looking for parents who have passed; a resistance to nursing staff who provide personal care; and residents who hit people when they come close,” says Nicole. “Holding, rocking and caring for a pet provides comfort and attachment that reduces anxiety and stress.

“We want to help individuals who struggle with dementia in a therapeutic way,” continues Nicole. “With this in mind we are moving away from using pharmacological approaches and, instead, using animals to provide a sense of purpose and emotional support that alleviates depression without medication.”

“There is nothing institutional about this facility. It portrays a sense of belonging, safety and love.”

The mission of The Salvation Army Glenbrook Lodge is to provide a high standard of client-centred care for all residents and support for their families.

“When I walk through the doors of Glenbrook Lodge there is a vibe I can’t describe,” says Nicole. “There is nothing institutional about this facility. It portrays a sense of belonging, safety and love.”