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Harmónia Zoo |
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 The Harmónia Animal Park was set up in September 2004. The primary
objectives in establishing the mini zoo were to provide residents with
another leisure option, to give them a focus of attention and therefore
a point of contact, and to exploit the therapeutic aspects of animals.
Even though animals cannot be a substitute for human
relations, pets and domesticated animals can have important emotional
associations for the elderly.
Old people who regularly spend time with, or look after,
animals come to sense that the animals need them, and this in itself is
of therapeutic value. The sense of responsibility the elderly or sick
may come to feel about animals can also find expression in a desire to
devote more attention and care to themselves. Research has shown that
elderly people suffering from Alzheimer's disease or chronic
arteriosclerosis smile more, are happier, friendlier, more communicative
and less hostile towards their carers.
In choosing the animals to stock the park we have attempted
to find the right species offering suitable attractions and which are
also appropriate from therapeutic aspects.
Source: oficial site of
Harmónia Residential
Care Village for the Elderly (2010)
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