A Noah’s Ark of creatures visited a dementia care centre in Seaford recently, as part of its initiative to create a calm and therapeutic environment for its residents using animals.
 
The ongoing pet therapy programme, at Clifden House on Claremont Road, welcomed a menagerie of pets, reptiles and small animals to include lizards, snakes, hedgehogs and rabbits.
 
Nial Joyce, of Clifden House, said: “Research from the International Psychogeriatric Association highlighted that interaction with pets can lower blood pressure leading to reduced anxiety. Ultimately, this can improve behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia.”
 
Deena McCormack, Activities Coordinator at Clifden House, said: “Everybody looks forward to our pet therapy sessions. These sessions are not only very interesting and engaging but also very therapeutic.
 
“The sessions are varied and can include anything from ewes and guinea pigs to tortoises and hedgehogs. All residents are actively encouraged to engage with the animals. This produces some great laughs and interesting questions.”

www.clifdenhouse.co.uk