Dogs and rabbits may help dementia patients regain movement — a trial puts it to the test

This randomized trial tests whether adding animal-assisted therapy (AAT) — structured sessions with a trained dog and/or rabbits — to standard rehabilitation can improve motor abilities, independence, and quality of life in older adults with dementia who are hospitalized in a medical rehabilitation unit. Participants will attend eight one-hour sessions over four weeks, with one group receiving standard rehab plus AAT and the other receiving standard rehab alone. The study measures changes in movement, daily living skills, fall risk, and well-being at the end of the program.