Pet Therapy for Seniors — Benefits and Opportunities

Contact with animals brings measurable health and emotional benefits to older people. Animal-assisted therapy is increasingly used in care homes and day centres across Europe. The presence of animals lowers stress levels, improves mood, and encourages physical activity.

How animal-assisted therapy works

Therapeutic sessions with specially trained animals are conducted by certified therapists. Dogs, cats, and sometimes rabbits or horses participate in planned activities tailored to seniors’ needs. Stroking an animal lowers blood pressure and slows the heart rate. Regular interactions with animals stimulate the release of oxytocin, the hormone responsible for feelings of happiness and bonding.

Emotional and social benefits

Animals offer unconditional acceptance, which is particularly valuable for those experiencing loneliness. Visits from therapy animals become events around which social activity is built in care homes. Withdrawn individuals begin making contact with others during shared animal sessions. Memories of their own pets stimulate memory and encourage conversation.

Impact on people with dementia

Research shows that contact with animals reduces agitation and aggression in people with dementia. Simple activities like stroking or feeding an animal provide a sense of purpose and usefulness. The presence of a calm dog during therapeutic sessions facilitates communication and builds trust. Even people in advanced stages of the disease respond positively to an animal’s warmth and closeness.

Safety and hygiene

Animals participating in therapy undergo regular veterinary checks and special training. Sessions take place under the supervision of a therapist who ensures the safety of both the senior and the animal. People with allergies can participate in sessions with hypoallergenic species. Hygiene rules, including hand washing before and after contact with the animal, are strictly observed.

Where to find pet therapy

More and more care homes are including animal-assisted therapy in their programmes. Animal therapy associations in individual countries maintain registers of certified therapists. It is worth asking about such programmes when choosing a care facility. On the OPK.care platform, you can search for care homes offering this type of activity.