Loneliness among residents at long-
term care homes is unfortunately all too common. Sunshine Therapy Dogs aims to provide support through cuddly companions to ease this feeling. Vera, a Sunshine Therapy Dogs volunteer, shares her experience below volunteering with her dog Leila at Copernicus Lodge in West Toronto.
“There’s nothing as rewarding as making a difference in the day of a longterm care setting. Quality of life is paramount to these residents for whom home is long term care. Leila is sure to visit all residents on the floor who wish to see her. While many residents can participate in engaging programmes off the unit, some more fragile residents are bedbound. Leila takes extra care to make sure these residents are given special attention. Often the residents are alone but awake, or they wake up as we enter their space. They are delighted to have her paw or chin on the bed or a quick kiss on the hand. Extra time is taken if they wish to caress her curls and engage in conversation or sing to her. Some residents simply enjoy watching from a distance while she interacts with others.
Leila also appreciates the hard working staff who say hello and thank her for coming. Knowing that our visiting hour brings some joy is very fulfilling.”
We are so grateful to volunteers like Vera for their commitment to making a positive difference in mental health in our communities.
Learn more about volunteering with our organization on our Volunteer Page!
