CHANGHUA (TVBS News) — Changhua Hospital (彰化醫院) announced on Tuesday (Dec. 17) that the initiative to engage elderly people with service dogs to aid rehabilitation and prevent cognitive decline has received positive feedback. The hospital trained three stray dogs to interact with residents at its affiliated nursing home to boost spirits and assist with hand muscle rehabilitation.
Recently, laughter has filled the nursing home as seniors interact with the affectionate canines. The dogs, trained to obey commands from their handlers, have become a source of joy for older people. Lin Po-ju (林伯儒), a social worker at the hospital's Department of Long-Term Care Medicine, highlighted research indicating the soothing effects of animal-assisted therapy.
After a thorough evaluation, the hospital ensured the dogs underwent deworming, bathing, and disinfection before entering the nursing home. Lin noted that the dogs, once strays, now engage with seniors who feed them jerky. In return, the dogs snuggle and rub against wheelchairs, accompanying older people on walks.
Chi Ming-shan (紀名珊), the trainer, emphasized the stability and dedication of these service dogs following their selection and training. Chi stated that they improve the seniors' mood, aid hand muscle rehabilitation, and help prevent cognitive decline.
