Eighty-two-year-old Elizabeth Gobby couldn’t stop smiling as she gently brushed a horse’s soft muzzle during a visit to Memory Lane Stables.
Residents from Grace Point Place, an Anthem Memory Care community in Oak Lawn, spent a joyful morning on Oct. 16 petting and brushing horses, holding goats, visiting chickens and enjoying the company of gentle animals under a crisp autumn sky.
The experience offered more than simple enjoyment.
Spending time with animals has been shown to reduce anxiety, lift mood and foster social interaction for those living with dementia. The tactile and sensory engagement of caring for animals provides emotional comfort and helps spark fond memories.
“My mother was an animal lover,” Gobby said. “I am nuts about animals. I really love these guys.”
“These gentle companions bring comfort, joy and a whole lot of smiles to our residents,” said Katie Shrader, life engagement director at Grace Point Place. “Evidence shows that animals do wonders for those with cognitive impairment. There’s something about being around them that always lifts their spirits.”
Shrader said animal therapy has become a valued part of the community’s life enrichment programming.
“We’ve had animal therapy before and it’s been very successful,” she said.
Grace Point Place resident Jean Heaney agreed.
“The horses are so kind and gentle,” she said.
The day at the stable reflected Grace Point Place’s ongoing efforts to create meaningful, enriching experiences that connect residents with the world around them and, in this case, a few friendly four-legged friends.
Grace Point Place, located at 5701 W. 101st St. in Oak Lawn, is operated by Anthem Memory Care and specializes in personalized care for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. The community focuses on comfort, safety and emotional well-being through activities that encourage connection, creativity and joy.
