Dr. Em Bould, a Senior Research Fellow at Monash University, has launched the Pets and People Program to combat loneliness among older adults in residential care and international university students. The innovative program, funded by the National Centre for Healthy Ageing, leverages a shared love for animals to create meaningful connections.
Driven by personal experiences, Dr. Bould’s inspiration for the program stemmed from the profound connections formed through pet interactions. Their own encounter with an elderly Greek couple, facilitated by their dog Murphy, highlighted the power of pets in bridging social divides.
The Pets and People Program aims to address social isolation in vulnerable groups by using pets as a medium for interaction. Dr. Bould’s research background in the benefits of dog walking for individuals with cognitive disabilities laid the foundation for this inclusive initiative.
Conducted across aged care facilities in Victoria, the pilot program brought together older adults and international students for weekly sessions over 18 weeks. Co-designed with participants and care staff, activities included arts and crafts, games, and interactions with live and robotic pets.
The program yielded promising results, with participants reporting decreased feelings of loneliness and improved health outcomes. One older adult shared how the program lifted their spirits and fostered new friendships, while an international student noted a positive shift in mood and overall well-being.
Robotic pets, in particular, had a significant impact on participants, offering companionship and emotional support. Stories of older adults forming deep connections with robotic cats underscored the program’s ability to provide comfort and alleviate feelings of isolation.
Embraced by residents at Fronditha Care, the program’s success lies in its inclusivity and simplicity. Dr. Bould emphasized the importance of accommodating individuals with varying abilities, including those with dementia, to ensure everyone could benefit from the initiative.
Beyond its emotional benefits, the Pets and People Program proved to be cost-effective, with activities requiring minimal resources. Dr. Bould highlighted the affordability of the program, emphasizing the value of human connection over material costs.
With plans to expand the program across multiple care facilities, the initiative has garnered praise for its positive impact on elders’ well-being. CEO Faye Spiteri OAM recognized the program’s significance in fostering joy and companionship among residents.
As the program continues to grow, Dr. Bould remains inspired by the transformative effects of pet interactions. Through shared moments of laughter, storytelling, and animal companionship, the Pets and People Program exemplifies the profound influence pets have in uniting people from diverse backgrounds.
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