Alzheimer’s and other cognitive deficits affect many families and, unfortunately, will impact more and more in the coming decades. When family and friends learn of the diagnosis, they often feel helpless, and the stages to go through can be very difficult for both the affected individual and their family. Engaging an animal-assisted therapist can help with the situation and the challenges that will arise during the progression of the disease in the affected person.
First, this form of therapy can assist the individual by offering support through the stages they will experience. Furthermore, the sessions will create stimulating situations and opportunities to develop social relationships within the facility. Moreover, animal-assisted therapy also helps reduce stress, encourage physical activity, maintain a sense of purpose, and preserve their knowledge and acquired skills.
Next, individuals requiring assistance often move to a specialized facility to receive appropriate care for their condition. The animal-assisted therapist can play a significant role in this major transition. The animal helps lower stress levels and eases the burden of this step. However, it is important to continue follow-up once the person is settled in the care home so that the animal’s presence becomes a bond of trust and a sign of stability.
Subsequently, the animal-assisted therapist is present and accompanies the affected individual with empathy and respect. Several elements, such as awareness of memory loss, fluctuating emotions, and misunderstanding of the situation, are among the stages the person must go through. The animal thus helps create an opening into the person’s experience, as they do not feel judged.
As the disease progresses, the person may start to isolate themselves, lack motivation, become disoriented in space and time, suffer from anxiety and hallucinations, and mobility may, at times, become more restricted. The animal’s presence is a source of stimulation; it has a calming effect and primarily allows the patient to live in the present moment. While the animal-assisted therapist and the animal are present, the client engages in the relationship out of interest. Furthermore, their anxiety is reduced, and the person may feel inclined to move more. The animal can be used to develop and create social bonds with other residents. The animal companion becomes a topic of conversation, a common interest, breaks down barriers, and gives importance to the person, thereby fostering the creation of social relationships.
Finally, the presence of the animal-assisted therapist and the animal with clients suffering from Alzheimer’s or other cognitive deficits offers opportunities for stimulation, a relaxing, non-judgmental presence, and without expectations.
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