KUALA LUMPUR: Some four-legged friends brought extra cheer to the Christmas festivities at a nursing home for the elderly in Cheras, thanks to Sunway Medical Centre Velocity (SMCV).
The geriatric healthcare home, AgeCare Sdn Bhd, recently hosted about 40 people to connect and support its elderly residents, comprising 10 of the home’s elderly, their caregivers, family members and SMCV’s consultants and employees.
“With elderly care being a core focus for SMCV, the visit was part of the hospital’s commitment to giving back to the community throughout the year – and this time with a festive spin,” the hospital said in a statement.
The visit started with a talk by Dr Ryan Tee Chun Keat, Consultant Psychiatrist from SMCV who spoke about “Caregiver Burnout Management”, and shared about the importance of caring for those whose main job was to care for others in need, Bernama reported yesterday.
“Support and assistance for patients is very important to ensure they are well, however, the well-being of their caregivers should be emphasised well,” he said, adding that caregiving is not an easy task.
“It is very important for caregivers to learn how to manage their stress well and to look after their own mental health needs.”
The highlight of the day was the special segment by the boarding and pet grooming centre which brought with them several trained dogs to put on a special “pawformance”, and a mingling session with the elderly.
This provided laughter, joy and excitement as the residents entertained themselves by playing with the dogs.
SMCV said studies have shown that pet therapy has a profoundly positive impact, particularly on the elderly.
While the special bond between animals and humans has been shown to boost morale, it can also lower the incidents of depression amongst the elderly.
Dr Ryan said having a pet or experiencing pet therapy can alleviate loneliness and increase happiness among the elderly.
