EQUINE VISITOR BRINGS JOY TO HORSE-LOVER MARLENE

A pensioner who has a life-long love of horses was delighted to have a special visitor at Acacia nursing home in Yeovil.

Marlene Hajegos, 79, and her fellow residents, came face to face with therapy horse Star during a visit organised by the home’s activities’ team.

Star, an American Miniature, who is specially trained to allow interaction with residents, was brought in by Lofty Therapy Horses.

“Marlene was over the moon. She loves all animals, especially horses, and has been around them all her life. It really made her day,” said activities co-ordinator Matt Wright.

“The chance to stroke Star and have her nuzzle up to her brought back some wonderful memories. The experience gave her a boost and she was smiling from ear to ear.”

Matt said the visit prompted Marlene to tell staff about her horses – Bracken, King and Deanna – that she grew up with as a child.

He said Marlene had also painted portraits of horses all her life as a hobby.

“Star helped give our residents a focus and helped make them much more alert and communicative,” added Matt.

Lofty Therapy Horses provide animal therapy sessions at hospitals, nursing homes, day centres, nurseries and schools across Dorset and Somerset.

Acacia is run by award-winning dementia care provider Camelot Care with four specialist homes based in Somerset and Devon.

For more information about Acacia Nursing Home visit: www.camelotcare.co.uk or call: 01935 470400.