Seniors who live in nursing or residential homes feel less lonely if they receive regular visits from dogs and other furry companions, suggest results of a recent study. Researchers found that one or thrice weekly visits from a friendly pooch significantly reduced loneliness in elderly patients living in long-term care facilities. So-called animal-assisted therapy also has other benefits some therapists use dogs to help stroke victims regain the use of their arms or hands by encouraging them to stroke the dog.
SOURCE/REFERENCE: Reported by www.HealthScoutNews.com on the 28th June