Alpacas Visit Arcare Hope Island Aged Care

Arcare Hope Island recently had an exciting visit from alpacas Noodles and Peaches, brought in by Mountview Alpaca Farm. The residents loved the experience and straight away were asking “when can they come visit again!” This was also the first time that most of the residents had ever fed, cuddled, or interacted with an alpaca up close. They also walked around the facility and visited resident’s rooms for those who were not able to enjoy the experience in the courtyard.

“It was nice being able to take the alpacas around to all the residents, especially those who were not able to join in the courtyard. Seeing their reactions and faces light up when they saw the alpacas was priceless.” Residence Manager Archie mentioned.

3-year-old Noodles and 1-year-old Peaches are sisters and Peaches is still a part of the ‘bambinos in training’ with this visit to the Arcare Hope Island facility being her first excursion away from the farm. Mountview Alpaca Farm created Australia’s first alpaca therapy program with local South-East Queensland hospitals and Aged Care facilities.

“A lot of the residents’ wishes came true today, as many had been requesting a visit from farm animals. There were a lot of happy faces, and it was so good to see them all enjoying themselves.” Lifestyle Coordinator Dan said.

The alpaca visits are just one of several alternative therapies provided for residents at Arcare Aged Care facilities. Arcare offers pet therapy because it provides a range of social, mental, and emotional benefits for the residents. Pet therapy has been shown to have multiple benefits for residents in aged care. It can effectively help people cope with an injury or illness and can decrease stress levels, pain, fatigue, anxiety, fear, isolation, and loneliness.

“I had such a lovely time this morning when the alpacas came to visit. I grew up with all kinds of animals and I miss them terribly since we don’t have any animals that live in the facility, so when I saw them this morning I almost fainted with delight!” resident Ailsa said.

It was a fantastic experience for all the residents and our team members, and we can be sure that the alpacas will be welcomed back to the community with open arms.

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