Vivage Explores the Benefits of Animal Interactions

Author

Fairacres Manor

Posted on

Sep 14, 2021

Book/Edition

Colorado - Northern Colorado

Share This
Whether you have a dog or a cat, you love your pet pig or enjoy riding horses, animals help us lead healthier, more active lifestyles.
Vivage offers memory care and other long-term care services throughout Colorado and Missouri, and we have seen the positive impact pets and animals can have on our lives. This is why we are sharing the benefits of animal interactions and how our communities use these and other experiences to improve residents and individuals quality of life.
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, at this time, we have not been able to welcome our pet visitation programs back. Still, we have gotten creative with how we are encouraging animal interactions.
Positive Impact of Animal Interactions
Encourages Physical Activity
Depending on the type of animal, these interactions involve some form of physical activity. Between grooming, feeding, walking, or playing, individuals naturally stay active to engage and connect with the animal.
Additionally, the activities required to take care of an animal help individuals improve or maintain their motor skills. From opening a can of cat food to clipping a leash to a dogs collar, an individual must regularly use their motor skills to care for the animal.
Helps People Form Stronger Relationships
An article published in Frontiers in Psychology states, animal-assisted activity has been leveraged as an intervention to improve social functioning in older psychiatric and dementia patients. Another study involving older adults with dementia showed that those in the presence of a dog had improved social relationships compared to those who did not have a pet.
What this really means is that animals and pets can provide more opportunities for socialization. The simple act of walking a dog gets an individual outside where there are more chances of socializing with another person versus staying indoors for most, if not all, of the day. Speaking with neighbors or other strangers on the street becomes easier, especially since people are likely to approach an individual if they have a pet.
Additionally, interacting with animals increases a persons capacity for emotional bonding. When an individual has a pet, they form a deep emotional bond with the animal. This may make it easier for them to form stronger, more meaningful relationships with the people around them, putting others needs before their own.
Offers Companionship
The article published in Frontiers in Psychology also states, human-animal interaction may provide social support for older adults, thus reducing the risk of loneliness.
We all need socialization, but there may be circumstances out of our control that limit the amount we get. For instance, reduced mobility or a lack of reliable transportation could inhibit an individual from getting out and enjoying activities with friends.
Animals could be a solution to these setbacks. Having a pet or regularly interacting with an animal not only presents more socialization opportunities, but the animals themselves act as companions offering unconditional love and support.
Stimulates Memory
According to UCLA Health, animal interactions can increase mental stimulation helping assist in recall of memories and help sequence temporal events in patients with head injuries of chronic diseases such as Alzheimers disease.
For many of us, we have had pets throughout our lives. Spending quality time with an animal or even getting another pet can help bring back the memories of the pets we had in previous years.
In addition to the personalized memory care services we offer throughout our Vivage communities, we know that pets and animal interactions can be highly beneficial to stimulating a persons memories. These and other familiar activities provide structure and routine, boost brain function, and promote wellness and holistic opportunities.
At Vivage, we strive to create an environment that provides all of these benefits and more. Our communities in Colorado and Missouri encourage socialization, physical activity, and mental stimulation through our long-term care services, activities, and amenities.
Even though our pet visitations may look different for the time being, we are working to find ways that our residents can reap the benefits of animal interactions while maintaining a safe environment for all. For example, in one of our communities, a volunteer and her therapy dog walk past our residents windows. Even though this is not the same as getting up close and personal with the dog, it still brings smiles to the residents faces. Additionally, virtual pet visits have been encouraged with families.
We understand that interacting with animals from a distance does not have the same impact as in-person visits, but safety for our residents, team members, and their families is our number one priority. We also want to remind our community members that Vivageis pet-friendly. If you or your loved one wishes to move in with your pet, please contact us for more information.
Our programs are designed to care for the whole person mind, body, and spirit. In addition to our traditional care, we offer holistic services to complement the healing journey. To learn more about these services and what we have to offer, we invite you to contact a member of the Vivage team or visit our website.

Other Articles You May Like

Journey of Care: Assisting Seniors in Relocation

IntroductionTransitioning to a new living arrangement can be a daunting task, especially for seniors who have spent many years in their homes. Whether downsizing to a smaller space or moving to a senior living community, the process of relocation can be overwhelming for both seniors and their families. In this guide, we'll explore practical tips and strategies for assisting seniors in relocation with care and compassion.Understanding the ChallengesRelocating seniors comes with its unique set of challenges, including:Emotional Attachment: Seniors often have strong emotional ties to their homes, making it difficult to part with belongings and memories.Physical Limitations: Health issues and mobility issues may hinder seniors' ability to pack and move their possessions.Decision Overload: The process of sorting through belongings and making decisions about what to keep, donate, or discard can be overwhelming.Financial Considerations: Seniors may be on a fixed income, making it challenging to afford moving expenses and new living arrangements.Tips for Assisting Seniors in Relocation- Navigating the journey of relocation with seniors requires patience, empathy, and careful planning. Here are some tips to help make the process smoother:Start Early: Begin planning the relocation well in advance to allow ample time for sorting, packing, and organizing. Starting early can help alleviate stress and ensure a more organized transition.Communicate Openly: Engage seniors in discussions about their relocation preferences and concerns. Listen attentively to their needs and desires, and involve them in decision-making as much as possible.Create a Plan: Develop a detailed plan outlining the steps involved in the relocation process. Break down tasks into manageable steps and establish timelines to stay on track.Downsize Thoughtfully: Encourage seniors to declutter their belongings by sorting through items and deciding what to keep, donate, or sell. Offer support and reassurance during this process, understanding that parting with possessions can be emotional.Seek Professional Assistance: Consider enlisting the help of professional organizers or senior relocation specialists, such as A Call to Order Professional Organizer. These professionals can provide valuable guidance and support throughout the relocation process, from decluttering to packing and unpacking.Ensure Safety and Accessibility: Prioritize safety and accessibility in the new living space by arranging for necessary modifications or accommodations. This may include installing grab bars, ramps, or handrails to enhance mobility and independence.Coordinate Logistics: Take care of logistical details such as scheduling movers, transferring utilities, and updating address information. Ensure that seniors are informed and involved in these logistics to minimize confusion and stress.Provide Emotional Support: Relocating can be emotionally challenging for seniors, so offer emotional support and reassurance throughout the process. Validate their feelings and provide encouragement during moments of uncertainty or anxiety.At A Call to Order Professional Organizer, we specialize in assisting seniors in relocation with care and compassion. Our team understands the unique challenges seniors face during the relocation process and is dedicated to providing personalized support every step of the way. With our expertise in decluttering, organizing, and coordinating logistics, we strive to make the transition to a new living arrangement as smooth and stress-free as possible for seniors and their families. Let us be your trusted partner in the journey of care, ensuring a seamless transition to a more comfortable and organized living space.

Spotlight: March 2024 Newsletter - Celebrating Our Caregiver of the Year Nomination

Greetings,In our last bi-monthly newsletter, I mentioned we had nominated one of our caregivers Jane, as the Caregiver of the Year for Visiting Angels nationwide. We were notified at the end of January, she was selected to move onto Round 2 of nominations! This round, we must submit video testimonials about Jane from the client, family members, office staff, and our owner Karen. By the time you read this, we will have submitted the video testimonials and will hear back by March 21st if Jane is a semi-finalist for this prestigious award. The winner of this years Caregiver of the Year award will be announced at the Visiting Angels 26th Annual Conference being held in June and will receive $5,000. There are many team members deserving of consideration for Caregiver of the Year, yet Janes exceptional qualities really stand out. Id like to share an excerpt from the written nominations highlighting Janes contribution.Jane has worked with our team for almost three years. She is dedicated to her work and committed to her clients. She is always on time and never calls out, no matter the weather conditions. The dignity of those in her care is a top priority for Jane while maintaining a positive attitude. Shes willing to go-with-the-flow in any circumstance. For example, when her client resists wearing oxygen and doesnt remember why they need to wear it, Jane knows how to navigate the situation with grace and patience. On the other hand, she holds her ground with difficult clients, and even though it may be uncomfortable, she handles it with respect and kindness.Nominating a caregiver of the year is not just a process, its an opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the extraordinary dedication and compassion of someone whose role is to serve others. Being a part of this journey of recognition has been rewarding because it highlights the invaluable contributions of caregivers nationwide and the importance of acknowledging their efforts. Its been a reminder of the power of appreciation and the significance of recognizing individuals who demonstrate excellence in their work. Im pleased to be a part of a nationally known and locally owned company, like Visiting Angels, who understands the importance and joy of recognizing others. In the end, nominating a caregiver is about acknowledging the countless acts of kindness and the immeasurable impact caregivers have on the lives of others. Whether or not Jane wins nationwide, she is our Visiting Angels of Medford, MA Caregiver of the Year 2023, and that is something to celebrate! I look forward to giving you another update regarding the award in May. All for now,Abby

Pathways of Comfort: A Compassionate Approach to Senior Moves

A Call to Order Professional Organizer, we believe in guiding seniors through their moves with a compassionate touch, recognizing the emotional journey involved in transitioning to a new home. Our approach focuses on creating pathways of comfort, ensuring that seniors feel supported and empowered throughout the process. From the initial planning stages to the final settling-in period, our team is dedicated to providing gentle guidance and heartfelt assistance every step of the way.We understand that moving can stir up a range of emotions, from excitement to apprehension, and we are here to offer a listening ear and a caring presence. With our expertise in senior moves, we aim to alleviate stress and uncertainty, fostering an environment of reassurance and comfort. At A Call to Order, we don't just organize relocations; we pave the way for seniors to embark on this new chapter of their lives with confidence and peace of mind.

Local Services By This Author

Fairacres Manor - Vivage/Beecan

Skilled Nursing 1700 18th Avenue, Greeley, Colorado, 80631

Whether you are looking for rehabilitation, a memory care environment, short term respite, hospice or long term care please consider us your home. Located in a quiet residential neighborhood we are the only locally owned nursing and rehabilitation facility in Greeley. Fairacres Manor strives to offer an environment that provides quality care, comfortable surroundings, activities and personal attention for each resident that chooses us for their home. We Pride ourselves in being a helping hand to our community and a representative of the Vivage management philosophy.

Fairacres Manor - Vivage/Beecan

Rehabilitation Facilities 1700 18th Avenue, Greeley, Colorado, 80631

Whether you are looking for rehabilitation, a memory care environment, short term respite, hospice or long term care please consider us your home. Located in a quiet residential neighborhood we are the only locally owned nursing and rehabilitation facility in Greeley. Fairacres Manor strives to offer an environment that provides quality care, comfortable surroundings, activities and personal attention for each resident that chooses us for their home. We Pride ourselves in being a helping hand to our community and a representative of the Vivage management philosophy.