How therapy animals improve mood, memory, and social connection in care homes
Animal visits can profoundly improve life for people living with dementia. Animals bring warmth, comfort and companionship to people of all ages, but for those living with dementia, the effect can be especially powerful. Studies and care home experiences show that animal therapy can reduce stress, ease agitation, and spark meaningful connections.
What Happens When Animals Visit Care Homes
When animals enter a room the atmosphere often changes immediately. Residents who may usually appear quiet or withdrawn often become more expressive and engaged. Stroking a dog or holding a small animal can spark conversation, laughter, and create moments of genuine connection. Families and colleagues often notice less confusion and anxiety, replaced by calmness and comfort.
How Animals Respond to Dementia
Animals often sense emotions instinctively. They may sit close, lean in, or stay calm and still when someone needs reassurance. For people with dementia, this gentle response feels personal and grounding. It provides comfort without the need for words.
Reconnecting With Memories and Identity
The benefits go beyond mood. Animal visits often unlock memories and reinforce identity. For example, someone who once cared for animals may suddenly share long-forgotten stories. A familiar touch or sight can bring back moments from the past. These interactions remind people that their identity reaches beyond dementia. They create comfort, meaning and a sense of self.
The Science Behind Animal Therapy
Pet therapy is not only emotionally supportive but also backed by science. Activities like stroking an animal can release hormones such as serotonin, oxytocin and prolactin, which promote happiness and relaxation. At the same time, levels of cortisol, a stress hormone, can decrease. For people with dementia, these changes help reduce agitation and create a soothing environment.
Studies suggest that animal-assisted therapy can give people with dementia a sense of purpose, boost confidence, and help maintain cognitive engagement and social interaction.
Voices From Our Homes
Across Westgate Healthcare homes, we welcome visits from therapy animals. Performing Pets and Pets Therapy bring an array of animals from dogs and guinea pigs to ponies and even piglets, each offering new ways for residents to connect.
As Tajá, Home Manager at Chestnut Manor Care Home, explained: “We’ve seen first-hand how pet therapy can brighten the day for our residents. The joy and comfort these animals bring are invaluable.”
Nathalie, Riverdale Care Home Manager, added: “Our pet therapy sessions have become a highlight for many residents, offering them companionship and a sense of purpose.”
Colleagues consistently note that residents with dementia are more engaged during animal visits, showing reactions and emotions that may not surface at other times.
Key Benefits for People with Dementia
- Emotional Wellbeing: Interacting with animals can lift mood and ease distress.
- Reduced Stress and Anxiety: Contact with animals can lower stress levels and promote relaxation.
- Combatting Loneliness: The unconditional companionship of animals helps people feel less isolated.
- Enhanced Social Interaction: Animals encourage conversation, spark laughter and help residents bond with others.
- Cognitive Stimulation: Animal visits can trigger memories and improve alertness, supporting a stronger sense of identity.
Considerations for Animal Visits
Not everyone feels comfortable with animals. Some may have allergies or prefer to observe rather than interact. To ensure sessions are safe and enjoyable, we carefully supervise all visits and only welcome animals that are calm, healthy and used to being handled.
Why Animals Matter in Dementia Care
For residents, colleagues and families, the presence of animals is more than just a pleasant distraction. It is a meaningful form of therapy that strengthens wellbeing, builds connections, and helps people with dementia feel part of the world around them.