Residents at Fairwood Fields care home in Pontefract were visited by some hoppy-go-lucky friends from Diggies Den recently.
Residents were delighted to see rabbits and guinea pigs in the home’s Garden Room, where they were able to pet, feed, and interact with each animal as part of the Fairwood Fields daily activity schedule.
Karen Hughes, the Care Manager at Fairwood Fields, said, “Activities like these, often known as ‘pet-therapy’, are so popular with residents. Not only do we hear the resounding ‘aww’ when residents first enter the room, there are also so many wellbeing benefits.
“Countless studies suggest that pet-therapy decreases cortisol levels, increases dopamine and endorphins, promotes social interaction, and often brings back happy memories of past pets which in turn sparks conversation.”
93-year-old resident, Ellen Moxen, said “It was lovely to see the animals! I haven’t lived here very long and it’s wonderful to see how many different activities they have organised.”
89-year-old Pauline Brooks added, “It was wonderful to see the rabbits, and it brought back many fond memories of younger days.”
You can find out more about living at Fairwood Fields at the home’s weekly Neighbourhood Natter coffee morning, where all are welcome every Wednesday at 10:00 for refreshments and homemade cake.
For more information, call 01977 238 051, email [email protected], or visit the Fairwood Fields website.
