Home Instead Brings Canine Comfort to Seniors

Home Instead has been bringing trained companion dogs to Chico, Calif., seniors to combat loneliness and isolation, reports the Chico Enterprise-Record . "Research . . . shows animal interaction can help perceptions of pain and discomfort and improve motivation for treatment protocols for diseases such as cancer by helping individuals feel more focused and positive moving forward," said Home Instead's Elizabeth Van Every. "Even interactions for half an hour a week can make a difference." The program does not restrict animal interaction to only those who have been specially certified as service animals. Home Instead coordinator Nathan Vail said anyone with time to offer a well-behaved, friendly animal to local seniors is encouraged to contact the program.