BOSTON, MA — While Idaho the miniature horse may be small in stature, he performs a very important job. Residents of Compass on the Bay, a Memory Support Assisted Living Community in South Boston, recently enjoyed a visit from Idaho and the team at Lifting Spirits Miniature Therapy Horses, who travel to senior living communities and other care settings providing comfort, and a little laughter, to everyone they meet.
Lifting Spirits’ therapy horses are trained to interact with people of all ages to assist in alleviating both mental and physical stress on the body. Along with bringing joy to seniors, contact with animals has several benefits including lowering blood pressure, releasing endorphins, reducing agitation, and may even stimulate fond memories from residents’ pasts, which is particularly comforting to those experiencing memory loss.
“Our miniature horses offer a really unique experience for these residents, and can be a much-needed distraction from any loneliness or challenges they may be experiencing that day,” said Toni Hadad, Founder and President of Lifting Spirits. “People can’t help but smile when we walk in. It is incredible how these little horses make such a big impact.”
Compass on the Bay is a Memory Support Assisted Living community dedicated exclusively to those with memory loss. For more information on Compass on the Bay’s holistic approach to Memory Care, please visit www.CompassontheBay.com. For information on Lifting Spirits Miniature Therapy Horses, visit www.MiniTherapyHorses.net.
See photos from South Boston Online.