Falkirk Care Home Residents Are Enjoying Pet Therapy Via Zoom During The Coronavirus Lockdown

Residents at Wallside Grange Care Home in Falkirk are enjoying their pet therapy sessions via Zoom during the coronavirus crisis.

Usually the residents would enjoy the Bunny & Co petting zoo visiting the home but due to the current lockdown, alternative arrangements had to be made.

Animals help to provide great stimulation but also comfort and a lot of joy to residents.

Levels of anxiety may decrease in the company of animals with residents who have previously had pets engaging with the therapy animals.

Spending time with animals has proven effects to lower people’s blood pressure and to increase serotonin, making people feel happier and residents were delighted that they could see them, even if it was only using technology.

Myra Alexander, 78, resident at Wallside Grange care home, said: “We have missed being able to cuddle and pet the animals, so it has been lovely to catch up with them on screen.”

Ian Cameron, deputy home manager at Wallside Grange, said: “We have been thrilled to be able to put this in place for our residents and they have thoroughly enjoyed being able to see the animals.

“Everyone is looking forward to our fortnightly screen catch ups until the time when they can actually be brought into the home.”