Miniature horses in gym shoes visited with the elderly at the Older Adult Services of Advocate Lutheran General Hospital

Two miniature horses from Mane in Heaven, named Charmer (white one) and Mystery (brown one), visited today with the elderly at the Older Adult Services of Advocate Lutheran General Hospital. The older adults include individuals with early Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, as well as those struggling with the effects of stroke and Parkinson’s disease, to name just a few.

The miniature horses from Mane in Heaven, are registered through Pet Partners, nationally recognized as the pioneer of animal-assisted therapy. The "minis" are specially trained and have passed extensive testing to provide comfort and healing to those in need, much like traditional therapy dogs. When they came to visit, the horses were wearing their own gym shoes, provided by their sneaker sponsor, Teddy Mountain. The footwear helps steady the horses and prevent slipping on inside floors and hallways. The miniature horses acting on commands, brought huge smiles, laughter and love to the participants. The horses got lots of hugs and kisses as they met their admirers. Older Adult Services offers a wide range of unique programs to assist older adults and their families.

Older Adult Services of Advocate Lutheran General Hospital teamed up with Mane in Heaven, a Lake in the Hills organization that started in 2012. The miniature horses make visits to nursing homes and hospitals and are registered with Pet Partners, the only national organization that registers miniature horses. Mane in Heaven has seven horses and will bring two to this event. It is an all-volunteer recognized 501c3 nonprofit with 45 volunteers. For more information go to www.maneinheaven.org.

Older Adult Services of Advocate Lutheran General Hospital has been supporting the elderly and their families in the community since its inception in 1980. A special program, called Expressions, is one stop on the horses visit. The program is for early onset Alzheimer and dementia patients. For more information, go to http://www.advocatehealth.com/luth-older-adult-services