Dog therapy for senior citizens in Calvià

A golden retriever is providing therapy to residents of a senior citizens’ home in Calvià.
In an announcement about the new initiative, Calvià Town Hall explained that dog therapy aids in mental and physical well-being and brings numerous benefits in terms of communication and interaction. It also boosts self-esteem and helps with overcoming feelings of loneliness, where “dogs’ movements and games stimulate the mind through the use of the senses and the activation of memory”.
The therapy typically starts with a first contact with the two-year-old dog named Samba which allows a resident to remember owning a dog or another pet in the past. This activates the sentiment of affection which studies indicate are good for well-being as removes negative thoughts.
The sessions take place with two groups each week at the senior citizens’ home. There is a rotation of participants each week so that the maximum number of residents can benefit from the therapy.
The scheme is being supported financially by La Caixa’s Obra Social where it is hoped that it will be rolled out to other residential homes on the island in the future.