Residents at Archbridge Manor care home in Telford, operated by Crystal Care Collection, recently enjoyed a visit from Donkey Education and Relaxation, Staffordshire (EARS).
During the visit, residents were able to pet, groom, and feed the donkeys, as well as take them for a walk around the care home gardens and ask questions about their care and behaviour.
The visit forms part of Archbridge Manor’s regular activity programme, which aims to offer a mix of familiar favourites and new experiences for residents.
Research into animal-assisted activities in care settings shows they can help increase social interaction and engagement, with reviews of more than 30 studies reporting positive effects on residents’ wellbeing and day-to-day experiences.
88-year-old resident Ann Rackley said, “The donkeys were brilliant. They reminded me of taking the children for horse rides and donkey rides when they were younger.”
Gemma Fearon, the General Manager at Archbridge Manor, added, “We’re always looking for ways to bring new experiences into the home, and this was something a bit out of the ordinary. It worked really well because you could see people engaging in different ways.
“Activities like this are a key part of what we do, making sure there’s plenty of variety and opportunities for people to take part in something enriching.”
You can find out more about activities and lifestyle at Archbridge Manor during the homes weekly Tea on Tuesday event, where all are welcome from 10:30-12:00 to unwind with a cuppa and refreshments.
For more information, call 01952 913419, email [email protected], or pop into the home on Marsh Meadow Way, Telford TF2 9WP.
