| Across the nation, the older adult population has been growing in number. While traditional talk therapy services have been provided to these older adults through community-based organizations, minimal attention has been given to animal-assisted therapy (AAT). AAT has primarily been utilized in institutional settings, leaving a gap in service delivery to older adults aging in communities. Guided by the human--companion animal bond conceptual framework and the theoretical frameworks of Gemeinschaft and Gesellschaft and mechanic and organic solidarity, survey data on attitudes and perceptions of 18 animal handlers for AAT and the concept of community care were explored using a qualitative, phenomenological research study design. Data were analyzed using content analysis for themes in order to better understand the experiences of registered handlers. Lived experiences of registered handlers revealed that the emotional well-being of older adults require attention and could be addressed through administrative leadership and increased awareness of registered handler-animal therapy services. With study findings, case management agencies at the local and city level can consider integrating registered handler-animal therapy services into existing service care plans or establishing programs in under-developed case management agencies in hopes of meeting the needs of older adults who are aging in place. |
