The Place Up Hanley's Sensory Garden Becomes a Paddock for the Day

A Safe Harbor care home in Stoke-on-Trent has had a visit from a pair of horses this month.

The Place Up Hanley care home, Bucknall, saw staff members bring their equine friends in to the Sensory Garden for residents to pet, feed and enjoy.

Named after the former famous potteries nightclub which was owned by Chairman Bill Morris, The Place Up Hanley specialises in Dementia care and also offers respite and residential care.

The care home is situated near to rural areas of Staffordshire, with many residents having links to the local farming communities.

Residents were delighted to see their garden transformed in to a petting area. They were able to reminisce as they fed carrots, apples and mints to the horses, and got to groom them with brushes.

Pet therapy has been shown to provide many mental and physical health benefits for people living with Dementia. Evidence supports that interacting with pets can lower blood pressure and heart rate, reduce anxiety and assist Dementia patients in recalling memories.

This form of therapy can also help to encourage residents to be more physically active and help prevent feelings of isolation as they get to join in socially with others.

All Safe Harbor care homes have regular activity events and everyone is welcome to attend. Call or visit your nearest home to find out their activity schedule.

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