Singapore Launches Innovative Horse Therapy Program for Seniors

Expanding Senior Care with Equine Therapy

Singapore has started an initiative to expand its senior care program using horse therapy, as the city-state grapples with the challenges of a rapidly ageing population. The “Haydays with Horses” program is a two-year initiative that taps into the therapeutic power of miniature horses to help seniors improve their physical health, cognitive functions, and psychological well-being.

Aging Population: A Growing Concern

Singapore has one of the region’s most rapidly ageing populations, and officials have warned that the “silver tsunami” is a key long-term threat. The Southeast Asian nation has already seen a significant increase in its senior population, with more than one tenth of the population aged 65 and above just over a decade ago.

New Approaches to Elder Care

In recent years, some organizations in Singapore have introduced innovative approaches to elder care, such as ballet lessons and silent disco sessions. Now, for the first time, hooved, four-legged friends are joining the mix. Pensioners are able to interact with miniature horses in “active-ageing” centers across the city, grooming the equids, combing their manes, or just stroking the animals.

Free Sessions and Research

The sessions are backed by the philanthropic arm of Singapore’s state investment fund, Temasek, and are free for participants. Under the scheme, experts will study the impacts of the therapy on seniors and draw up potential guidelines for policy-making. One medical expert involved in the research said that most studies on equine therapy were usually done in the west, and that this initiative could open the door for new and innovative methods for elder care.

Retrained Horses and Potential for Expansion

Seniors are also able to pet and walk retired race or polo horses, retrained for equine therapy. If research results prove effective, it could lead to the expansion of the program, potentially incorporating robots to help cope with Singapore’s growing ranks of seniors.

Conclusion

The “Haydays with Horses” program is an innovative approach to senior care that has the potential to make a significant impact on the lives of Singapore’s seniors. By harnessing the therapeutic power of miniature horses, this initiative could lead to improved physical and mental health, as well as increased social interaction and a sense of community.

FAQs

Q: What is the “Haydays with Horses” program?
A: The “Haydays with Horses” program is a two-year initiative that uses miniature horses to help seniors improve their physical health, cognitive functions, and psychological well-being.

Q: Who is eligible to participate in the program?
A: The program is open to seniors who are 65 years and above.

Q: Are the sessions free?
A: Yes, the sessions are free for participants.

Q: Will the program be expanded in the future?
A: If research results prove effective, the program could be expanded to include other innovative approaches to elder care, such as the use of robots.