Hundegestützte Intervention bei älteren Menschen mit einer geistigen Behinderung - eine videogestützte Verhaltensbeobachtung

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This study explores the impact of therapy dogs on the well-being of elderly individuals with mental challenges during a 45-minute intervention. Observations suggested that therapy dogs could enhance the participants' well-being. The research involved 16 participants aged 50 to 75 over nine weeks, using 42 measurements where participants served as their own control group. Key behaviors such as communication frequency, happiness, anger, fear, attention, activity, and physical contact were assessed through video analysis. Results indicated significant positive effects on communication, attention, and happiness during interactions with therapy dogs. Most participants actively sought contact with the dogs, with minimal expressions of fear. These findings suggest that therapy dogs may improve the quality of life for mentally challenged individuals. However, the study's small sample size and brief duration highlight the need for further research. Overall, the presence of therapy dogs in care facilities could significantly enrich the daily lives of these individuals.