Animals boost the well-being of Linwood care home resident

Linwood care home in Thames Ditton make a residents’ day by going to R.D.A Riding School in Epsom. 

The staff at Anchor’s Linwood care home in Mercer Close, called upon the services of R.D.A Riding School and their lovely ponies to assist resident Bracken Belfield in reminiscing about her past childhood memories.

Eva Trochim the Home Manager said: “Bracken absolutely adored the ponies and gained so much enjoyment from patting and talking to them. Bracken spoke at lengths to one of the volunteers Mo, about what it is like to look after the ponies.

“Studies have shown that the health of residents and those with life challenges improves when they interact with animals which they can stroke. Customers with dementia are particularly responsive to animals.

“Some older people open up more when seeing animals and ponies can help to start conversations as it is very important to introduce yourself to them before you pat them.

“Linwood is such a friendly home, there are always lots of things going on and the staff are very caring so everyone has a lovely day.”

Bracken, who has enjoyed lived at Linwood for a number of years, said: “I used to have lots of pets and also ponies when I was younger so I was over the moon when Linwood gave me this opportunity to visit R.D.A Riding School in Epsom. It was like revisiting my old friends as such, I can’t wait to go back later in the year!” 

Linwood care home has a pets policy which encourages older people to bring pets with them when they move in. For more information on Linwood contact 0208 335 6800.