Animal assisted aged care therapy in Ballarat
Our Puppy Pause program for residential aged care homes offers dog-assisted aged care therapy designed to enhance the emotional and mental well-being of your residents. Through Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) and Reminiscence Therapy led by our psychologists, we create meaningful experiences.
Our trained therapy dogs provide residents with unconditional love and companionship, fostering a sense of calm and security. Research has shown that interactions with therapy dogs can:
- Reduce anxiety and combat loneliness by lowering cortisol levels and increasing serotonin and dopamine.
- Improve social engagement by encouraging conversation and interaction.
- Support cognitive function in individuals with dementia by stimulating memory and focus.
- Lower blood pressure and heart rate, promoting physical relaxation and improved overall health.
Our psychologists skilfully integrate our regular visits into broader therapy plans, ensuring each session is tailored to meet the unique needs of residents.
Canine therapy for seniors
Our programs are designed to uplift residents, reduce feelings of loneliness, and foster a warm, nurturing environment with the support of a skilled mental health clinician. We work closely with aged care providers to tailor our visits, ensuring they align with residents’ preferences and needs. Our pet therapy for aged care includes options to incorporate group therapy alongside individual psychological treatment, working with your residents’ medical practitioners and broader health teams. Medicare subsidies often enable no or low-cost options within your care home where several residents require ongoing care from a psychologist.
Have a look at our other Puppy Pause programs, business and Year 12 programs.