The Connected Horse Facilitator Training Academy, based in the Bay Area of California, has opened its barn doors to individuals and stables wishing to learn more about how horses can help people affected by memory loss and dementia, as well as their caretakers.
The organization is the first to offer nationwide, in-depth, evidence-based training to guide unmounted interactions between participants and horses. The training involves in-person and virtual sessions.
People affected by memory changes may struggle with anxiety, depression, and a sense of disconnection, while their caretakers may feel apathetic, isolated or hopeless. The Connected Horse Program addresses the affected person and their caretaker together.
The program was designed with input from the University of California, Davis School of Medicine, Alzheimer's Disease Center, School of Veterinary Medicine, and the Center for Equine Health. Stanford University School of Medicine and the Red Barn Leadership Program also had input in program development.
Initial studies have shown that program participants feel more supported and self-aware; they also report reduced anxiety and depression and better sleep. The program offers effective, non-pharmaceutical tools to improve the lives of people living with dementia and memory issues.
In-person training sessions will take place in March 2023 in Minden, Nevada; additional training will be offered throughout the year. The training includes 16 hours of continuing education credits for those involved in the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH). It also offers educational resources, coaching, evaluation tools and recertification.
Connected Horse also offers Virtual Barn and Sensory Engagement Kits, which creates a virtual “day at the barn” for those who can't attend in person or for those who would like additional at-home tools for engagement and mindfulness.
Read more at The Plaid Horse.
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