Animal-Assisted Therapy and Nutrition in Alzheimer’s Disease

TLDR

The study examined the influence of fish aquariums as animal‑assisted therapy on nutritional intake in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease. The authors enrolled 62 AD patients in specialized units, collected baseline nutrition data, introduced aquariums for a 2‑week period, and monitored intake daily for two weeks then weekly for six weeks. Fish aquariums increased nutritional intake by 21.1 % (p < .001), led to a 1.65‑lb weight gain over 16 weeks, reduced the need for supplementation, and produced healthcare cost savings.

Abstract

This study examined the influence of animal-assisted therapy, specifically fish aquariums, on nutritional intake in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Sixty-two individuals with AD who lived in specialized units were studied. Baseline nutritional data were obtained followed by a 2-week treatment period when the aquariums were introduced. The treatment data were collected daily for 2 weeks then weekly for 6 weeks. Nutritional intake increased significantly (21.1%; p &lt; .001) when the aquariums were introduced and continued to increase during the 6-week weekly follow-up. Weight increased significantly(1.65 lbs; p &lt; .001) over the 16-week period. In addition, participants required less nutritional supplementation, resulting in health care cost savings.