Therapy ponies are bringing comfort and joy to St John's residents

Residents of St John’s Court Nursing Home in Bromsgrove welcomed some unusual guests for Dementia Action Week. Lollipop and Moomin, two miniature ponies, from local business Lollipop Ponies, came and raised smiles all around.

Pony therapy can help ease symptoms of Alzheimer's dementia, whilst also stimulate a positive social response. Equine therapy can also provide comfort, joy and a sense of excitement.

The ponies enjoyed a walk around the home, meeting residents in the main lounge of the impressive grade II building. And for those who weren't able to meet them in the lounge, the ponies went to visit them directly in their bedrooms.

Jacqui Harris, Home Manager at St John's Court said: "Pony therapy is an excellent support tool for those living with dementia. Our residents enjoyed meeting with Lollipop and Moomin and it was great to see the positive impact their visit made."

"Ponies are intuitive animals, that can stimulate positive engagement and therapeutic interaction. I could just see the impact those two had on our residents by looking at the smiles on their faces."

Vivien Butler, one of St John’s Court residents, said: "I loved having the ponies in, they are in my head, my thoughts, it’s the smell of the ponies I love, I have missed that smell. Ponies are my second love, my husband being my first."

For more information on the services provided at St John's Court, please call Jacqui, Home Manager on 01527 575070.