A new, furry resident moved into Aegis Senior Inn in the Northgate neighborhood last week. Perry the dog was adopted into a very special community where his presence alone has put smiles on the faces of the residents who live there.
Aegis is an assisted-living facility that specifically accommodates people affected with cognitive impairments such as memory loss, Alzheimer's or some form of dementia. Forty-six residents reside in apartment-like rooms in a homey, secure atmosphere.
Activities director Jo Rothenberg found Perry on the Craigslist website, where he was placed on-line for adoption by a Shoreline family. Based on Perry's profile alone (no photo), Rothenberg thought he would be the perfect fit for Aegis. However, Perry did need to audition.
The first day, Perry visited for a couple of hours, roaming around the rooms and halls freely to engage with the residents.
After the second visit, it became evident that Perry was a match.
Making the connections
The idea to have a pet in the Aegis community came about when Rothenberg witnessed the connection residents had with her own dog, which she brought with her to work regularly. She referred to this type of relationship as "unqualified love."
She explained that some people with Alzheimer's are particularly drawn to the companionship of the dog.
"[The residents] do not have to have skills to interact," she explained.
By slapping her leg to call Perry to her side, she explained how residents naturally acted out this gesture without having to recall or remember how to do it. That is where the connection begins.
Having a dog around creates a mental nudge for residents to open doors to their pasts, perhaps to a beloved pet of their own.
During one visit, Perry stopped in the one of the entertainment rooms where several residents were gathered. In the background taped Lawrence Welk shows played on the TV as Perry roamed around to greet his newfound friends.
Perry stopped to visit with resident Jim Rubin, who was sitting by the window enjoying the late-afternoon sunshine. Rubin, who once had a Chihuahua of his own, immediately befriended Perry.
With a wide doggie smile, Perry settled into Rubin's embrace and didn't stir, allowing Rubin to give him a neck massage.
After Perry's massage, he stopped to visit with another resident who had a story of his own.
Carl explained that when he was a younger, he had a dog called Chummy, who was an expert golf-ball collector. Their favorite pasttime was to comb golf courses collecting balls for resale.
Triggering memories
Perry is a 6-year-old mixed-breed: black Labrador and border collie. His disposition is one of gentleness, loyalty and that unqualified love. He never once turned down a friendly pat or a "Hello there, fella!" from residents as he weaved his way around the room.
Part of the interaction with Perry involves chores. Aegis has many activities in which residents can participate, but with the new addition to the Aegis family, this created another way for residents to feel purposeful. Some of the chores include brushing, playing Frisbee or fetching the ball.
While it's difficult for Aegis staff members to watch people lose touch with their memories, Rothenberg explained how the staff makes a concerted effort to understand each resident's stories. Reminiscing is an essential bridge in communicating with the Aegis residents while also helping trigger their memories.
Each resident has a memory box posted outside his or her room. Each box had a personal touch, with photos and mementos from the resident's past.
Carl's box contained a black-and-white photo of him and his faithful friend Chummy and a real golf ball honoring their adventures.
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