September is World Alzheimer’s Month

The number of people with Alzheimer’s disease, the most common type of dementia, is rising. One in three people born in the UK today will be diagnosed with dementia in their lifetime. Symptoms can affect memory, problem-solving, language and behaviour.

Supporting World Alzheimer’s Month and World Alzheimer’s Day on 21 September, Pets As Therapy is proud of our volunteers, people such as Stephen Wakeham, who give up their spare time to help those living with dementia.

Stephen and his PAT Dog Duke, a two-year-old Labrador, visit Lovell Place Care Home near Bristol. “As soon as I walk in with Duke, people’s eyes light up,” Stephen smiles. “Despite having dementia, many of the residents can recall their own dogs from years ago and share stories. People especially love feeding treats to Duke and smoothing his coat.”

Visiting a care home was top of Stephen’s list when he became a PAT Team with Duke. “My mum had been in one and I saw with my own eyes the good work they do. I now see first-hand the joy patients get reminiscing about their past life and talking about the dogs they’ve owned. If we can bring this joy into someone’s life, then it’s worth doing.

“I also feel a sense of pride and satisfaction that I am giving something back. And while Duke might be a Labrador, people always comment how calm and chilled he is. I think he has a lazy gene! He seems to love humans more than dogs. Duke was always very loving towards my elderly mum so I knew he would be an ideal candidate to be a PAT Dog.”

Selina Adams, a Wellbeing and Lifestyle Coach at Lovell Place, adds: “Our residents really look forward to the visits from Duke and Stephen. It’s well recognised that playing with, stroking or just watching animals can lower the levels of cortisol and increase the production of serotonin, making us less stressed. This can also lower blood pressure and slow heart rate, all of which have great benefits for all of our residents, but particularly those living with dementia.

“Many Lovell Place residents have had dogs in previous years and miss the comfort and companionship that they gave. It’s so lovely to see them interacting and getting such comfort from Duke’s visits.”

Help us share the love of our pets with people living with dementia.