Sally the Cat: A Resident of a Continuing Care Facility

Sandra P Hirst

doi:10.23937/2469-5823/1510027

Sandra P Hirst

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.23937/2469-5823/1510027

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Abstract

During the past several decades, interest has grown in the contribution that animals make to the quality of life of older residents who live in continuing care facilities. These residents are typically over the age of 85 and have often co-existing acute and chronic health challenges. Explored through this paper are several salient issues specific to animal assisted interventions for older residents living in continuing care facilities. These include: the possible contribution of animals to residents’ health and quality of life, the use of animal assisted interventions for older residents with dementia, problems associated with the use of live animals, the debate between the uses of live versus robotic animals, implications for clinical practice, and future directions.

Highlights

During the past several decades, interest has grown in the contribution that animals make to the quality of life of older residents who live in continuing care facilities
Older residents who reside in continuing care facilities are typically over the age of 85 and have co-occurring acute and chronic health problems, in addition to functional disabilities
Over the past several decades, interest has grown in the contribution that animals make to the quality of life of older adults who reside in continuing care facilities

Summary

Introduction

“A small pet is often an excellent companion for the sick, for long chronic cases especially” (Florence Nightingale, Notes on Nursing). Explored through this paper are several salient issues specific to animal interventions for older residents in continuing care facilities These include: the potential contribution that animals can potentially make to residents’ quality of life, the use of animal assisted interventions for older residents with dementia, problems associated with the use of live animals, the debate between the use of live versus robotic animals, implications for direct clinical practice, and future directions. These issues were identified through conversations with long-term care staff about the introduction of a cat into the facility as a permanent resident. These conversations triggered a literature search to enhance administration and staff understanding of the implications of adopting “Sally”

Literature Search Strategy

Findings

Conclusion