Animal-Assisted Intervention at a Dementia Community Center in Taiwan

The number of individuals with dementia is increasing globally, and Taiwan is no exception, with over 350,000 cases diagnosed in 2024, representing 1.59% of the population. Dementia patients often suffer from behavioral and mood disorders, including disrupted routines, depression, anxiety, and fear. Finding effective care strategies that improve a patient's quality of life while reducing caregiver burden is crucial. This research focuses on an Animal-Assisted Intervention (AAI) program conducted by licensed social workers with an AAI background at the Dementia Center of Asia Eastern Hospital in Taiwan. The primary objective was to evaluate the effectiveness of the AAI program in enhancing several critical areas of participants' lives. The study employed both quantitative and qualitative methods, including Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia (BPSD) scores, Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) assessments, in-depth interviews, and observation notes of each activity. The results showed significant improvements in participants' cognitive function, emotional wellbeing, and social interactions. The study underscores the importance of incorporating AAI into traditional therapeutic models to create supportive environments for dementia patients and improve their quality of life.