{"id":1157,"date":"2024-09-11T02:21:34","date_gmt":"2024-09-11T02:21:34","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.whiddon.com.au\/yourlife\/?p=1157"},"modified":"2024-10-03T03:56:57","modified_gmt":"2024-10-03T03:56:57","slug":"the-benefits-of-animal-therapy-for-older-people","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.whiddon.com.au\/yourlife\/the-benefits-of-animal-therapy-for-older-people\/","title":{"rendered":"The Benefits Of Animal Therapy For Older People"},"content":{"rendered":"

Animal therapy has long been recognised as a powerful tool in promoting emotional and physical well-being. At Whiddon<\/strong><\/a>, we\u2019ve embraced this concept through our innovative aged care programs, bringing the unique benefits of these interactions to our residents. Let’s dive into the benefits of animal therapy and explore how it\u2019s making a difference in the lives of older Australians.<\/p>\n

Talk to our team<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

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Looking Beyond The Usual Pets<\/h2>\n

When most people think of pet therapy, dogs and cats are the two prime candidates for these programs. However, at Whiddon, we\u2019ve introduced an unexpected but fun addition to our therapy roster: chickens. HenPower<\/strong><\/a>, based on a program developed in the UK, is an innovative Whiddon aged care program that sees residents engage in the care and companionship of these unique animals.<\/p>\n

Chickens, though unconventional, offer unique benefits to older adults. The act of caring for chickens\u2014feeding them, collecting eggs, and simply spending time with them\u2014provides our residents with a sense of purpose and responsibility. This daily routine helps combat feelings of loneliness and depression, fostering a sense of belonging and accomplishment.<\/p>\n

Moreover, these chickens can become a focal point for social interaction, encouraging residents to share stories, reminisce, and engage with one another, thereby strengthening community bonds within our residential aged care homes.<\/p>\n

Creature Comforts: A Diverse Approach To Animal Therapy<\/h2>\n

In addition to our HenPower program, Whiddon\u2019s Creature Comforts<\/strong><\/a> involves pet therapy with a variety of animals, each tailored to meet the needs and preferences of our residents. Whether it\u2019s the cuddly fur of a dog or the soothing presence of a fish tank, we select each of our \u201cChief Happiness Officers\u201d to provide comfort and companionship for older adults.<\/p>\n

Our relationship-based care approach<\/strong><\/a> is also a key part of this program with one of the main elements being that residents and their families help us in the design, from the type of animal, to how it\u2019s run and what involvement they want at their home. This ensures that everyone experiences the benefits of animal therapy in a way that feels more personal and meaningful.<\/p>\n

The Creature Comforts program offers a wide range of benefits that go beyond mere companionship. This includes:<\/p>\n