County’s long-term care animal program awarded
Pet therapy program 'about giving residents a reason to wake up, get excited': warden
WELLINGTON COUNTY – Wellington Terrace has won the AdvantAge Ontario Innovation and Excellence – Supporting Seniors Award for its pet therapy program.
The award recognizes initiatives demonstrating excellence, creativity, innovation and measurable improvements in the quality of care for seniors across Ontario, according to a news release.
“It’s not just about having pets around; it’s about giving our residents a reason to wake up and get excited,” county warden Chris White said in the release.
The program, titled “Pet Therapy: Reigniting a Sense of Purpose and Responsibility for Seniors Living in Long Term Care” provides residents with hands-on responsibilities and meaningful caregiving roles, officials say.
“Residents actively participate in experiences, including hatching chicks, raising ducklings and fostering small animals through a partnership with the local humane society,” states the release.
Terrace life enrichment manager Tiffany Wurdell said the program reduces isolation, improves emotional wellbeing and has resulted in decreased medication seeking behaviour.
