I got to visit the pair of assisted living facilities this week. We are never sure what to expect. Sometimes the residents are oblivious to me, and barely acknowledge I’m there. Other times, like this visit, they are really present. One of them even called out my name when my human brought me into the big living room in the first house.
One of the staff members was newer, and she was very nice. My human and I settled with a couple of the residents on a couch, and instead of us having to make rounds, she brought lots of them over to us. That made things a lot easier, and it was easier to tell which ones really wanted to see me. One woman was crying because she missed her cats so much, and she was so happy to see me.
The second facility makes my human a little sad because there is a man living there who used to be very chatty. But his dementia has progressed and now sometimes he doesn’t even acknowledge when we come in. And it’s especially sad because he is not even that old. But there is also a woman there who is very interesting because she knows my breed! She even knows that Somalis are the longhaired version of Abyssinians. We had some good visits there.
The assisted living facilities are one of my easiest therapy cat visits. But I think it’s one of the most difficult for my human.
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Dementia is such a debilitating condition…and it can make us feel sad to see peeps that way. Esp when they get worse over time.
When I am in the long term care part of where I work, I see it first hand…but sometimes you do see a little glimmer of who is really that person. And pets and you, Summer are so valuable in promoting that. I can’t bring my dogs to my work, but if I could and did, I know lots of my residents would smile broadly.
Thanks Summer, for all that you and your Human do for the residents and patients, when you visit.
Summer, I love learning about you and your therapy visits!
Before I developed my chronic pain condition, I used to work with the elderly. It’s very rewarding, but I cannot tell you how many times I would just go home and cry. It’s so hard to see the residents decline.
We are really glad you visit the seniors. They are often overlooked and sometimes their families don’t even visit them. I cannot imagine what it would be like to not have a kitty in my life. I’m sure it’s extremely hard on many of them. I am certain that you and your human brighten their day when you visit.
We can understand why those therapy visits are tough for your human, Summer. But we know you are bringing a special kind of goodness to the folks there, and are glad for that.
It is sad Summer. Just remember we don’t know what’s going on inside these people with dementia. That man could still recognize you inside but not be able to show it. You are doing amazing work and bringing joy and kindness to people who have difficult challenges
Pawsome to hear you cheered them up.
You and your human are very very special, Summer. We’re glad you’re both there.
I’m sure that a visit from you is just what many of them need.
I completely understand why those places are so hard for your human. It breaks my heart when the elderly are separated from the pets they need in their lives so desperately.
I’m so glad you go there, they really need you sweet Summer.
So glad that you were able to visit. As you said, visiting can be very difficult emotionally for everyone. thank you for sharing and I’m sure that your visit brightened their day.
Dementia is heart wrenching. A visit from a cat can surely help! It’s so good that you and your human do this, Summer!
Sounds like you made a lot of people happy as you always do. It is sad to notice that someone has declined. XO
Your therapy visits are my favorites to read. They’re always so heart-warming. Thank you both for what you do and thank you for sharing with us.
Such good work you and your human do. Thank you.
Having visited a care home recently, I know the strange happy/unhappiness of being there.
Hugs and purrs to your mom; she is a kind soul.
Cute picture!
I think it is happy and sad to visit an adult care centre.
Sad when things like dementia affect people, but happy when the residents get to enjoy cat therapy.
I believe that patting a cat ( or a dog)can make a person feel better. Animals are important in the life of(most) humans and humans often feel better after time spent with us.
Good to hear you had such a good visit.
Purrs, Julie
I’m glad you got to bring some happiness to those humans, Summer.
Many years ago when my Mom was in a nursing home with dementia I saw the magic of pet visits first hand. Actually they had two resident cats and almost without exception the residents would talk to and pet them – it calmed them down, made them less anxious, and I KNOW the cats enjoyed all the attention! I know you are appreciated at the assisted living facility Summer!
Hugs, Pam (and Teddy too)
It is very sad to see someone deteriorate with dementia.