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Animal-assisted therapy for clients with dementia
Linda L Buettner1, Suzanne Fitzsimmons, Beth Barba
1Therapeutic recreation and Gerontology, School of Health and Human Preformance, University of North Carolina at Queensboro, Greensboro, NC 27402, USA. llbuettn@uncg.edu
Journal of Gerontological Nursing
|April 14, 2011
Summary
Animal-assisted therapy offers benefits for older adults with dementia. This article guides nurses on implementing animal-assisted therapy, distinguishing it from visitation programs and detailing credentialing and outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Veterinary Medicine
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Dementia care presents challenges for older adults.
- Animal-assisted therapy (AAT) is an emerging intervention.
- Distinguishing AAT from animal visitation is crucial for effective implementation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To raise nurses' awareness of AAT for dementia patients.
- To differentiate AAT from animal visitation programs.
- To provide guidance on AAT implementation and advocacy.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on AAT for dementia.
- Comparison of AAT and animal visitation programs.
- Outline of steps for nurses to advocate for AAT.
Main Results:
- AAT shows potential therapeutic outcomes for dementia patients.
- Clear guidelines for human-animal team credentials are provided.
- Nurses can effectively advocate for AAT services.
Conclusions:
- Nurses play a key role in integrating AAT into dementia care.
- Understanding AAT protocols ensures optimal patient benefits.
- Further research can expand AAT's role in geriatric mental health.
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