The Dementia Centre is supporting a new life engagement program, Hounds Helping Humans, a partnership between HammondCare and Greyhound Rescue.
The pilot is part of a broader Life Engagement Project to be rolled out across our residential sites, building on previous animal engagement programs that have been found to greatly improve quality of life.
Training and preparation for the greyhounds and trainers includes communication techniques to facilitate meaningful connection with residents, specifically those living with dementia.
Greyhound handler Kate: After every visit I walk out feeling humbled by what Jordy offers the residents.
Sandra, daughter of resident Carlo: I love seeing how Dad smiles when Jordy comes up to his hand for a pat. Dad loves it. Kate is also very calm, which is what people living with dementia need, and she communicates so well with Dad.
Residential manager Jodie: It’s uplifting to see the interaction between the hounds, handlers, residents and their families. After the hounds leave, the residents are more content and happier.
The Hounds Helping Humans team - hounds and handlers - have had positive impacts not only for residents, but the staff and family as well.