In honour of International Dog Day on Monday 26 August, residents from TriCare Kawana Waters Aged Care Residence welcomed two very furry friends for a special playdate and pet therapy session.
Designed to foster social connections and positive wellbeing for the residents, the pet therapy sessions are a ‘highlight of the week’ for many – especially those that are unable to engage in other social activities due to illness.
The facility saw ‘paw pals’ Ruby and Chester visit the residents for some much-needed cuddles, emotional support, and lots of laughter.
TriCare Kawana Waters Aged Care Lifestyle Coordinator Sally McSorley has witnessed many residents who are often recluse, come out of their shell due to the program.
“The benefit of the therapy dogs is that they can come to them. Residents that say they can’t move because of pain suddenly become active and smiling from ear to ear,” Ms McSorley said.
“It definitely reduces the anxiety and stress in some of the residents if only for a short while. It gives them something else to focus on and to talk about after.
“It also allows the residents to show love and feelings to the therapy dogs as our two furry friends also love their visits and receiving cuddles and attention.”
Studies show that friendship and social connections provide intellectual stimulation and emotional support through hardships, one tenet of the Blue Zones Power 9.
One resident said, “it’s so wonderful to have a visit from the dogs, I’ve always had dogs in my life and have missed not having one around. I love my cuddles with Ruby.”
