Reptile Handling: A Unique Therapeutic Approach for People with Dementia
Our Senior Safari experience is one of our most popular sessions. During weekdays, you’ll usually find us (and the Scaly Safari Crew) visiting care homes and nursing homes across North Wales and the Wirral. It’s one of our favourite things to do, because it’s such a rewarding experience (both for the residents and for us).
When it comes to innovative therapies for people with dementia, animal-assisted interventions often take centre stage. Traditionally, dogs, cats, and horses have been used in therapeutic settings to bring comfort and joy to individuals with memory loss and cognitive decline. However, a growing body of evidence suggests that unconventional animals—like reptiles—can also play a meaningful role in dementia care.
While reptiles may not be the first animals that come to mind for therapy, their unique characteristics and calming presence make them an intriguing option. From turtles and tortoises to lizards and snakes, these creatures offer sensory, emotional, and psychological benefits that can enhance the well-being of those living with dementia.
Residents enjoying our Senior Safari reptile handling experience for care homes in North Wales & the Wirral
The Sensory Benefits of Reptile Handling FOR THE ELDERLY 🥰
Reptiles have distinct textures, movements, and behaviours that provide unique sensory experiences. Unlike furry animals, their smooth, scaly skin offers a different tactile stimulation, which can be especially beneficial for people with dementia. Research shows that engaging the senses—touch, in particular—can help ground individuals in the present moment, reducing anxiety and agitation.
Gently stroking the cool, smooth scales of a snake can have a calming effect. These interactions stimulate sensory pathways in the brain, potentially improving focus and reducing feelings of restlessness. The slow, deliberate movements of reptiles also encourage a tranquil and mindful state, fostering relaxation.
A care home resident stroking Thunder, our blood python
Emotional and Psychological Impacts 💖
For many people, reptiles evoke a sense of curiosity and wonder, making them an excellent conversation starter and a source of positive engagement. Dementia often isolates individuals, limiting their ability to interact with others. Reptile handling sessions, facilitated by trained professionals, can spark meaningful moments of connection. Caregivers and family members often report seeing their loved ones become more expressive, animated, and engaged during these interactions.
Reptiles also lack the hyperactive energy sometimes associated with traditional therapy animals, which can overwhelm individuals with dementia. Their calm demeanour and steady presence create a soothing environment that fosters feelings of safety and trust. Additionally, caring for a reptile—even in small, supervised ways, such as offering food or watching the animal explore—can boost self-esteem and provide a sense of purpose.
Cognitive Stimulation 🤓
Interacting with reptiles can also stimulate cognitive functions. Observing their unique behaviors and learning about their habitats, diets, and characteristics engages memory and critical thinking skills. For individuals with dementia, these moments of mental stimulation can be incredibly valuable, helping to maintain cognitive abilities and encourage curiosity.
In some cases, the novelty of reptiles may even evoke memories from the past. For instance, our snakes often inspire stories from being abroad during a war…sparking reminiscence and storytelling. This connection to personal history can bring comfort and joy to both the individual and their caregivers.
A resident at The Dales Care Home in West Kirby having cuddles with Axl, our Yemen chameleon
Considerations and Best Practices 🙏
While reptile handling offers many benefits, it’s essential to approach this therapy thoughtfully. Not everyone feels comfortable around reptiles, and for some, these animals may evoke fear or discomfort. When we’re visiting a care home, we carefully assess each individual’s preferences and comfort levels before introducing reptiles into a therapy session.
We often encounter residents that are terrified of the snakes at the beginning, but have fallen in love with them by the end of the session.
Success Stories and Growing Popularity 🚀
Programmes incorporating reptiles into dementia care are gaining traction worldwide. In Australia, for instance, the non-profit group Living Reptile Museum has developed interactive programs where residents in aged-care facilities can handle reptiles and learn about their behaviours. Caregivers have noted improvements in mood, communication, and overall engagement among participants.
Similarly, a care home in the United Kingdom introduced reptile therapy sessions, reporting that residents who were typically withdrawn became more talkative and involved. A study conducted by the University of Lincoln further supports this, showing significant reductions in anxiety among participants during reptile-assisted interventions. The staff observed significant reductions in anxiety and agitation among participants, underscoring the therapeutic potential of these unconventional animals. 😊
BOOSTING STAFF MORALE 🧑⚕️💪
Reptile handling sessions in care homes not only benefit residents but also have a positive impact on staff morale. Watching residents engage, smile, and respond to the reptiles can be incredibly rewarding for caregivers, providing a sense of accomplishment and validation for their work. These sessions create moments of shared joy and teamwork as staff collaborate to facilitate the experience, often strengthening camaraderie among the team. Additionally, seeing residents thrive during these activities can reignite caregivers’ passion for their roles, reducing burnout and fostering a more positive work environment.
Staff members enjoying a Senior Safari at Grosvenor Manor Care Home in Chester
A Fresh Perspective on Therapy 🚀
Reptile handling for people with dementia challenges traditional notions of animal-assisted therapy, offering a fresh and effective approach to enhancing well-being. These unique creatures provide sensory stimulation, emotional comfort, and cognitive engagement, making them valuable allies in dementia care.
As awareness of reptile-assisted therapy grows, more care facilities and families may consider incorporating these fascinating animals into their care routines. By embracing the unconventional, we can continue to explore new ways to support individuals with dementia, enriching their lives with curiosity, connection, and calm. 🌿
