Losing memory, the ability to function, and orientation to
surroundings can be very frustrating to a person with Alzheimer’s disease.
Imagine how frightening it can be for loved ones to have that person simply go
for a walk outside while being unsure about problems with falling or getting lost.
It is easy to see why some choose to stay in safety at home. Unfortunately, this can lead to depression and a lack of independence.
Some Alzheimer’s sufferers have found support for
leading a more normal life. Yariv Ben Yosef, an Israeli
dog trainer who specializes in training service dogs, developed a program for
the Alzheimer’s Aid Dog project. Bella, a smooth
collie, was the first dog trained for this program. The first person to
receive her was Yehuda, an Alzheimer’s patient aged 62.
Bella is trained to alert others when Yehuda is in distress, provide
physical support to prevent falls and injuries, and even take him home if he
becomes lost. In addition, Bella wears a special GPS homing
device for the family to signal to the dog when it is time to bring Yehuda home.
This device also makes it easy to locate them if Yehuda refuses to follow the
dog. The dog never leaves him and barks to attract attention when needed.
Another
form of assistance the dog provides is a special collar with a transmitter that reacts to a special
bark the dog is trained to use to call for help. This bark activates the
transmitter that transmits to the cell phones of family members. When at home, Bella is trained to operate a panic button if help is needed.
The following video features Yehuda and his dog Bella. She has been with him for 11 years. They have a great
24-hour friendship caring for each other.
Frances Shani Parker, Author
Becoming Dead Right: A Hospice Volunteer
in Urban Nursing Homes is available in paperback and e-book
editions in America and other countries at online and offline booksellers.
No comments:
Post a Comment