PATH EQUINE THERAPY PROGRAM
International.
Program Description
““Licensed medical or behavioral health professionals work within their scope of practice in counseling, occupational therapy, physical therapy, psychotherapy, recreational therapy and speech-language pathology.”
“The therapist determines how equine interactions, movement or aspects of the equine environment may enhance the client’s individualized treatment plan with the goals of improving the client’s sensorimotor, cognitive, behavioral, emotional or psychological function for improved health and wellness.”
- pathintl.org
The organization’s Magazine, Strides: Aging Strong Issue covers information on equine assisted therapy for older adults and those with dementia on the following topics:
· In the Presence of Horses
· Riding in the Moment
· Senior Saddles – a program for seniors who are passionate about riding horses.
· Therapeutic Driving for Older Adults
· Understanding Their World
· Inspiring Story: Horses Help People With Dementia and Their Caregivers
Equine Therapy Program benefits for older adults, those with cognitive impairment, dementia and others may include:
Improved Physical benefits:
Improved gross motor skills
Trunk core strength
Control of extremities
Improved postural symmetry
Reduced abnormal muscle tone
Respiratory control
Improved Cognitive benefits:
Increased ability to express thoughts and needs
Improve understanding of visual cues
Visual coordination
Sensory input
Tactile responses
Improved attention
Improved Psychological benefits:
Improved self-esteem
Opportunities for social interactions
Increased enthusiasm with treatments
Enjoyable interactions with the animal
Improved Speech and language benefits:
Receptive, pragmatic and expressive language improvement
Stuttering improvement
Oral motor functioning
Improved auditory processing
The PATH Equine Therapy Program helps to support members to become licensed therapy professionals through rigorously developed standards, credentialing and education.
The organization works to ensure universal recognition of professional equine-assisted services.
source: pathintl.org
Elderly Nursing
Nursing Home Activities
Animal Assisted Therapy and Activities
Pets and Seniors Companionship
Service Dogs for Elderly
Terminally Ill & Their Pets