What are the effects of animals on the health and wellbeing of residents in care homes? A systematic review of the qualitative and quantitative evidence

Abstract

Background There is some evidence to suggest that animal-assisted interventions can have beneficial impact for residents in long-term care, but the focus of the evidence has largely been on behavioural and psychosocial measured outcomes. Animals, either as companion animals or in the form of pet/animal-assisted therapy, may provide benefts in the form of social contact, as well as opportunities for sensory experiences and meaningful engagement not picked up by outcome tools. This review aimed to create a state-of-knowledge synthesis, bringing together qualitative and quantitative fndings, on the impact of animal-human interaction on care home residents and care home staff.