A study of functional outcomes generated in a brief animal-assisted therapy among chronic patients of a health care facility.

Maria Olivia REYES-SUDIO; Caroline Mae P RAMIREZ; Eduard Kyle GOCOTANO; Kenneth Kristofferson D EUROPA

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A study of functional outcomes generated in a brief animal-assisted therapy among chronic patients of a health care facility.

Author: Maria Olivia REYES-SUDIO ¹ ; Caroline Mae P. RAMIREZ ² ; Eduard Kyle GOCOTANO ³ ; Kenneth Kristofferson D. EUROPA ⁴
Author Information

1. National Center for Mental Health, Mandaluyong, Metro Manila, NCR, Philippines
2. National Center for Mental Health, Mandaluyong, Metro Manila, NCR, Philippines;Department of Science and Technology, Taguig, Metro Manila, NCR, Philippines
3. Department of Science and Technology, Taguig, Metro Manila, NCR, Philippines
4. National University, Manila, Metro Manila, NCR, Philippines
Publication Type:Journal Article, Original
Keywords: Functional Outcomes; Animal-assisted Therapy; Aat; Ghair Stand Test; Montreal Gognitive Assessment-primary; Timed Up And Go; Gst; Moga
MeSH: Human; Schizophrenia; Cognitive Dysfunction
From: Journal of the Philippine Medical Association 2025;104(1):9-17
CountryPhilippines
Abstract: BACKGROUND
Schizophrenia, a common mental disorder, is associated with cognitive impairment in middle-aged and older adults. Research highlights challenges such as white matter loss, dementia risk, psychosocial issues, nursing home admissions, and limited cognitive benefits from antipsychotics. Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) is an emerging intervention for mental and physical illnesses, including schizophrenia.
METHODS
This quasi-experiment included 20 patients from a health care facility, selected through purposive sampling based on inclusion/exclusion criteria.
RESULTS
AAT significantly improved lower body strength (CST) and cognitive abilities (MOCA- P) but had no effect on agility (TUG). Male participants showed greater improvements than females in all domains: CST (+7.8), TUG (-2.365), and MOCA-P (+12). The dropout rate was 50% for females and 20% for males, primarily due to eligibility for discharge.
CONCLUSION
AAT significantly enhances lower body strength and cognitive function but does not improve agility. It is a safe, feasible adjunct therapy for chronic mental health conditions, though targeted interventions for mobility challenges are needed.