Hopping and slithering visitors provide a treat at Belmont Lodge, Chigwell

Residents at the Belmont Lodge Care Centre in Chigwell are used to welcoming plenty of visitors, but those who popped in this week created some looks of surprise and delight, as animal handlers from Wild Science brought in all manner of friendly creatures, from a gerbil to a frog – and even a snake!

The visit was part of Belmont Lodge’s regular events programme, all of which are designed to create a stimulating and vibrant atmosphere for residents, particularly those with dementia.

“Animals have a tremendously calming effect on many people living with dementia, with pets such as rabbits and gerbils reminding them of the kinds of animals they would have grown up with,” comments centre manager, Maureen McDonagh.  “As soon as the handlers started bringing the creatures over to the residents, their faces lit up.  The reaction to the snake was particularly fantastic – he was, by far, the most popular visitor of the day!”

The idea of animals being used as therapy tools for people living with dementia is well documented, with studies suggesting that people find it easier to interact with an animal because it doesn’t matter if they have met them before – unlike humans, where they may feel concern that they don’t remember someone they feel they should.  As well as reducing agitation, researchers have found that animal visits can even stimulate appetite, with residents eating more following animal visits.

Belmont Lodge is located on Fencepiece Road in Chigwell, and offers 24 hour residential care for older people, with a particular specialism in dementia care.  The home has 40 bedrooms, most of which have ensuite facilities, and five day rooms where residents can enjoy views over the beautiful gardens.  The home is one of 12 in the Forest Healthcare family of homes, offering excellent care throughout Greater London and the South East.

For more information, please call 08444 725 178 or visit www.foresthc.com.  For those looking for a suitable home for a loved one, visits are also welcome at any time with no appointment necessary.

ENDS

For further media information or photographs, please contact:

Jay Commins

Pyper York Limited

Tel:         01904 500698

Email:    jay@pyperyork.co.uk