How Assistance Dogs Can Support People Living with Dementia
Author: Gwenda Darling, Assistance Dog Handler and Aged Care Advocate
Assistance dogs have long been trusted companions, offering not only loyalty and a range of support for people facing health challenges, including dementia. With the onset of dementia, the loss of memory, language, and even independence can be challenging for both the individual and their family. Assistance dogs can play a unique role in maintaining a sense of routine, companionship, and safety for people living with dementia. However, as with any support option, there are considerations to keep in mind, and this approach may not be ideal for everyone.
What is Dementia?
Dementia is a general term used to describe a decline in cognitive function severe enough to interfere with daily life and activities. It is not a specific disease but rather a collection of symptoms associated with memory loss, difficulty with language and problem-solving, impaired judgment, and changes in behaviour. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia, but other types include vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia, each with its own underlying causes and symptoms. Dementia primarily affects older adults, but it is not a normal part of aging, and it can progress at different rates in different people. Early signs often include forgetfulness, difficulty finding words, and confusion about time or place, which may gradually lead to more severe impairments. While there is no cure, treatments, therapies, and supportive care can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life for those affected.
How Assistance Dogs Benefit People with Dementia
Routine and Structure
Assistance dogs require consistent feeding, walking, and grooming. For people living with dementia, the responsibility of caring for a dog can create a daily rhythm. This structure can foster a sense of purpose, which is particularly beneficial as dementia can lead to feelings of confusion and aimlessness. Even if someone is unable to fully manage dog care independently, the presence of a routine can be grounding.
Emotional Support and Companionship
Dementia often brings on feelings of isolation and anxiety, and companionship becomes incredibly important. Assistance dogs provide constant, non-judgmental company, reducing loneliness and giving a reason for emotional connection. Studies have shown that simply petting a dog can increase levels of oxytocin—a hormone associated with love and trust—and decrease stress hormones, which can help ease mood swings and anxiety.
Safety and Security
Many assistance dogs are trained to support their owner’s safety by recognizing signs of confusion or anxiety. They can guide individuals away from potentially dangerous situations, such as crossing a street without awareness or wandering out of the house. Some dogs can even be trained to retrieve emergency phones or press alert buttons in case of a crisis, offering family members reassurance of added safety.
Encouragement of Physical Activity
Physical activity benefits cognitive health and helps delay dementia progression. Having a dog can encourage people with dementia to get outside for a walk or to engage in gentle play. This activity promotes blood flow to the brain, supports a healthy sleep routine, and can improve overall well-being.
Social Connection
An assistance dog can be a great icebreaker for social interaction. Engaging in conversation about the dog’s breed, personality, or behaviour can create natural social opportunities. This can be beneficial when isolation is common for those living with dementia, helping individuals and caregivers alike to stay socially connected.
Considerations Before Getting an Assistance Dog for Dementia
While the benefits are significant, there are important factors to think about before introducing an assistance dog to someone with dementia.
Level of Comfort with Animals
Not everyone is comfortable around animals, and the presence of a dog could potentially cause more distress. If someone with dementia has had little or negative experience with animals, it’s essential to consider whether a dog would be calming or distressing.
Stages of Dementia
As dementia progresses, there is a risk of the individual becoming unable to interact with or care for the dog appropriately. In later stages, they may forget the dog’s name or purpose, potentially leading to confusion or even frustration. While family or caregivers can help manage the dog’s needs, they should be prepared for the extra responsibility.
Mobility and Health Concerns
Some people with dementia may have other physical disabilities or health issues that limit their ability to interact with a dog safely. Assistance dogs are often lively and require exercise, but if mobility is an issue, it’s essential to ensure that someone else can support these activities for the dog.
Compatibility with the Living Environment
Assistance dogs need a suitable living environment. If the person lives in a small apartment or a facility that doesn’t allow animals, it may be difficult to incorporate a dog into their life. Additionally, if they move to a different care setting, there may be restrictions on keeping the dog with them.
Financial and Time Commitment
Assistance dogs come with costs, from food and grooming to veterinary care. There may also be upfront costs related to training, depending on the organisation or provider. The time and energy needed for upkeep, whether by the individual or their caregivers, is another practical consideration.
Why an Assistance Dog May Not Benefit Everyone with Dementia
An assistance dog may not be the right fit for everyone. For some, the presence of a dog could lead to increased stress or confusion, especially if the person does not fully understand the purpose of the dog. Additionally, some individuals may lack the physical or cognitive ability to interact safely and consistently with the animal. In such cases, alternative therapeutic animals or interactions, such as visits from trained therapy dogs, may provide similar benefits without a full-time commitment. Short, supervised visits can offer companionship, reduce anxiety, and create joyful moments without the added responsibility of full-time care.
Final Thoughts
For the right individual, an assistance dog can be a profoundly supportive companion, helping to maintain a quality of life, structure, and emotional support that many living with dementia seek. However, this decision should involve careful consideration, an understanding of the individual’s needs, and a realistic assessment of whether the family or caregivers can take on this added commitment. When chosen thoughtfully, assistance dogs can make a meaningful difference in the lives of people with dementia and their families.
About the Author: Gwen is a dedicated member of the Aged Care Council of Elders, providing valuable insights to the government on aged care and promoting ageing well. With a career spanning over 50 years in both government and non-government organizations, Gwenda is a Palawa woman deeply committed to justice for Elders, particularly within the aged care system. Her extensive leadership roles include CEO of Anaiwan Aboriginal Land Council, Chairperson of Gandangarra Local Aboriginal Land Council, and Director of Hunter Aboriginal Children’s Services. Diagnosed in her late 50s with younger onset (behavioural-variant frontotemporal) dementia, Gwenda has become an advocate for dementia awareness and participates actively in research.
Gwen lives independently at home with the support of her assistance dog, Redleigh, whom she trained under the auspices of the National Assistance Animal Training Group. Redleigh provides essential companionship and assistance, forming a strong, supportive team with Gwenda as she continues her advocacy work for respectful, trauma-informed care for First Nations Elders.
The Working Animals Federation of Australia would like to congratulate Gwen for her nomination as NSW Senior Australian of the Year for 2025.