Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) for Dementia & Alzheimer’s Patients

Published on: July 2, 2025

Elderly woman holding an orange cat while sitting in a swinging chair in a backyard.

Caring for patients with dementia or Alzheimer’s often requires more than traditional treatments. Providing a calm, comfortable environment can be just as important as medication or clinical care. That’s where animal-assisted therapy (AAT) comes in. This growing approach uses trained animals to support patients struggling with memory loss, helping to ease anxiety, encourage social interaction and spark moments of joy and recognition that might otherwise feel out of reach.

In this blog, we’ll explore how therapy animals are being integrated into care for those with cognitive decline, the proven benefits of animal therapy for dementia patients and how programs like Husson University’s animal-assisted therapy degree prepare professionals to deliver this unique healing approach.

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The Power of Animal-Assisted Therapy in Dementia Care

Animal-assisted therapy has shown remarkable promise in supporting those with dementia. The presence of a gentle, well-trained animal can reduce agitation, improve mood and even spark memories thought to be long forgotten. For patients who may struggle to communicate or feel isolated, these interactions offer a sense of comfort and connection that may not be found through traditional talk therapy.

Understanding Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease

Dementia isn’t a single disease; rather, it’s a broad term for a decline in cognitive function that affects memory, thinking, behavior and daily life. It occurs when brain cells become damaged over time. Alzheimer’s disease is the most prevalent form — accounting for about 60–80% of cases, it involves a progressive loss of memory and thinking skills that eventually interferes with basic daily tasks.

What Is Dementia?

Dementia is an umbrella term for symptoms that impact memory, language, reasoning and social abilities to the point where they disrupt daily living. It describes a persistent decline in cognitive function that goes beyond normal aging.

What Is Alzheimer’s Disease?

Alzheimer’s disease is a specific type of dementia caused by damage to brain cells from abnormal protein buildups (or plaques and tangles). This irreversible condition leads to gradual memory loss, as well as impairment in thinking, language and behavior. It’s the most common form of dementia and typically affects people over 65.

How Animal-Assisted Therapy Supports Dementia and Alzheimer’s Patients

Animal-assisted therapy for dementia patients and Alzheimer’s patients provides a non-medical way to engage and support those who are struggling with memory loss. Whether it's through touch, movement or simply enjoying the presence of an animal, these sessions help patients feel calmer, more engaged and less isolated. Over time, consistent interaction with therapy animals can lead to measurable improvements in mood, as well as overall quality of life.

Cognitive and Emotional Benefits

Spending time with therapy animals has been shown to spark memory recall, reduce confusion and lessen anxiety or agitation. Even short visits can lead to visible changes. Patients may smile more, speak more clearly or become more alert. Emotionally, animals offer comfort without judgment, which can help reduce depression and create a stronger sense of security. These interactions also provide valuable cognitive stimulations, helping to maintain engagement and mental activity.

Physical and Social Benefits

Therapy animals often motivate patients to move more, whether it’s by reaching out to pet a dog or taking a short walk alongside a trained companion. These small movements can improve circulation, coordination and flexibility. On a social level, animal visits can prompt conversation and more engagement with caregivers or fellow residents, helping patients feel part of a community again.

Common AAT Activities for Dementia and Alzheimer’s Care

Animal-assisted activities, such as grooming, petting or playing, offer significant support for emotional and cognitive well-being. These interactions can reduce stress, improve mood and provide a sense of comfort and companionship. Engaging with animals can also encourage cognitive stimulation while fostering a sense of responsibility and empathy.

Incorporating animal-assisted activities into daily life can lead to numerous psychological and developmental benefits, including the following:

Petting and grooming animals: These simple, calming activities can reduce anxiety, improve mood and stimulate sensory memory through touch and routine.

Walking therapy dogs (with assistance): Supported walks provide gentle physical exercise, which can help maintain mobility and offer a sense of independence and purpose.

Animal-assisted group therapy sessions: Group settings encourage conversation, laughter and shared experiences, helping patients feel more connected to others.

Animal visits for companionship and emotional connection: One-on-one time with a therapy animal can ease feelings of loneliness, build trust and create moments of calm and clarity during otherwise confusing days.

Challenges and Considerations in AAT for Dementia Care

While pet therapy for seniors offers many benefits, it’s important to approach it with care and intentionality. Patients with dementia or Alzheimer’s may have unpredictable reactions, and not every individual will feel comfortable around animals. Safety, ethical practice and proper supervision must always come first to ensure a positive and supportive experience for everyone involved.

Safety and Supervision

Every animal-assisted therapy session should be overseen by trained professionals who understand both dementia care and animal behavior. Patients may react unpredictably, so having a skilled handler and caregiver present helps ensure safety and comfort. Hygiene protocols also play a role, particularly in clinical or residential settings where patients may be more vulnerable to infection. Assessing each patient’s readiness and emotional state beforehand is key to creating a positive, secure experience.

Ethical Considerations

Ethical practice is as important as safety. Participation in AAT for dementia should always be voluntary, and patients must be given the choice to engage or step away. It’s also vital to consider the well-being of the therapy animals.

All animals in therapeutic settings should be properly trained and cared for. In addition, they should not be placed in stressful or overly demanding environments. Open communication with family members and care teams helps set clear expectations and ensures that pet therapy for seniors remains a thoughtful, respectful part of a patient’s care plan.

Turn Your Passion for Healing Into a Career, Starting With Husson

Animal-assisted therapy has the power to create meaningful change for individuals living with dementia and Alzheimer’s, offering comfort, connection and a renewed sense of joy. As this field continues to grow, so does the need for trained professionals who understand both the science of care and the unique human-animal bond. At Husson University, our Animal-Assisted Therapy degree program prepares students with the skills and knowledge to work in clinical, educational and therapeutic settings. Whether you're drawn to working with seniors, children or individuals with disabilities, this program equips you to make a lasting impact through compassionate, evidence-based care.

Learn more about how you can turn your love for animals into a purposeful career with Husson’s Animal-Assisted Therapy program.