Research into the effects of canine companions on
residents in aged care facilities looks like having a major impact on the way
dementia patients are treated.
What place do dogs have in reducing the effects of this
debilitating disease?
With a rapidly ageing population, dementia is predicted
to be the leading cause of disability in Australia within 8 years, resulting in
many people living with memory and attention loss. As well, there will be a
corresponding decline in language skills, and increased feelings of insecurity
and vulnerability.
The benefits of having a pet are well-documented.
Jackie Perkins, PhD student at the Centre for Companion Animals Health, UQ, wanted
to help dementia patients. Jackie’s research, generously funded by the Wicking
Trust, is examining ‘how dogs can
have a therapeutic effect on dementia sufferers’. She has developed
questionnaires to better understand the relationship between people in aged
care facilities and therapy dogs.
One person declared “While I had Golly on my lap, I didn’t feel the pain in my hip” and
another, “While I was stroking Lady
I felt the pain in my leg go”. Even those whose previous experience
with dogs had not been positive showed signs of overcoming their reluctance -
asking to be included in the trials to play with and pat the dogs. The
dogs, Golly, Lady and Rinnie, responded with the warmth characteristic of these
adoring pets. The residents also formed close relationships with other
members in their trial group. In this way, they regained some of their lost
communication skills.
Current medical treatment for dementia is largely
ineffective. The success of this project would mean that dogs could become
part of accepted therapy in the palliative care of elderly Australians and
contribute to improving their quality of life.
Source: Centre for Companion Animal Health, University
of Queensland