Workshops for Seniors with Memory Loss Empowered by Connected Horse Connections

Susanne Kaletsch, an 81-year-old resident of The Watermark at San Ramon, found solace and joy in the company of Covergirl, a gentle horse at Leah Felize’s Five Star Equestrian center in Pleasanton. Alongside six other memory-impaired seniors, Kaletsch participated in a mini workshop organized by Connected Horse, a nonprofit founded by Paula Hertel and Nancy Schier Anzelmo in 2015.

Hertel and Anzelmo, armed with their expertise in social work and gerontology, embarked on a research journey at Stanford University and U.C. Davis to explore the benefits of equine-assisted learning for individuals diagnosed with dementia and their families. Their findings led to the creation of Connected Horse, a unique program aimed at reducing feelings of depression and burden, improving sleep, and fostering a sense of social support among seniors and their loved ones.

The workshop at Five Star Equestrian center provided the seniors with an opportunity to engage with the horses in various activities such as giving them sponge baths, brushing them, and leading them around the stables. The connection between the participants and the majestic animals was palpable, emphasizing the therapeutic power of the human-horse bond.

Hertel emphasized the importance of the non-verbal connection between humans and horses, highlighting the horses‘ innate ability to form relationships based on openness, non-judgment, love, and patience. She noted that the facilitators‘ role is to create a neutral space that allows for genuine interactions to unfold naturally, without interference.

For the seniors, the experience of spending time with the horses brought about a sense of confidence, connection, and joy. Despite the challenges of memory loss and aging, they found comfort and fulfillment in the presence of these gentle creatures. Hertel stressed the importance of supporting families affected by dementia, offering hope and encouragement as they navigate the complexities of the disease.

As the workshop came to a close, participants shared their reflections and experiences. Susan Stevenson, 83, expressed her love for horses and the overwhelming sense of warmth and happiness she felt during the session. Marion Parker, a 90-year-old former school principal, found the experience of being around horses to be enlightening and engaging, much to the delight of her daughter, Carla Fields.

The workshop not only provided a therapeutic outlet for the seniors but also brought joy to the staff and volunteers involved in facilitating the activities. Watermark Community Life Director Josephine Dugoni witnessed the smiles and positive energy radiating from the participants, underscoring the profound impact of the program on their well-being.

Looking ahead, Hertel envisions a future where doctors prescribe visits to the barn as a form of therapy, recognizing the healing power of human-animal interactions. Connected Horse will be hosting their annual fundraiser, „Lassos with Love,“ at Five Star Equestrian in Pleasanton, offering an opportunity for the community to support their mission of inspiring connection and engagement for those affected by dementia and memory loss.

In conclusion, the Connected Horse workshop at Five Star Equestrian center served as a testament to the transformative power of equine-assisted therapy for seniors with memory impairment. Through their interactions with the horses, participants found solace, joy, and a renewed sense of connection, highlighting the profound impact of human-animal relationships on emotional well-being and quality of life.