Therapy Dogs, Pets, and Healthy Aging: The Research Behind the Impact

Preliminary research demonstrates the benefits of therapy dogs for older adults. Research has also shown the benefits of canine-human interaction for people with dementia. Specifically, therapy dogs help to combat loneliness, decrease agitation, and decrease symptoms of depression in people with cognitive impairments. While there are many opportunities for animal-assisted interventions to improve health and wellbeing of older adults and those with dementia, additional research is still needed to bring these solutions to scale.

This free, one-hour webinar will:

• Present the scientific evidence that dogs and other pets can have positive impact on older adults, including those with cognitive impairment
• Propose a pilot workshop on the evidence-based, positive impact of therapy dogs on older adults during recent, early-stage diagnosis of dementia and related potential changes in anxiety, depression, hostility, sociability, and care
• Explore how the scientific and philanthropic sectors can make an impact by partnering on this innovative pilot project

Additionally, Lisa Orloff (Nicholas B. Ottaway Foundation) and Carol Gallo (The Y.C. Ho/Helen and Michael Chiang Foundation) will lend perspectives on funding healthy aging-related programs.

The conversation will be moderated by Lindsay Goldman, CEO, Grantmakers in Aging. The audience will be invited to ask their questions in a 30-minute Q&A.