Animal-Assisted Therapy Brings Joy and Healing to Seniors in Sanary-sur-Mer
Yvette, 93, expresses her delight: “I love animals!” At 1:50 p.m. On Tuesday, March 24, 2026, residents of the Palmera residence in Sanary-sur-Mer (Var) eagerly welcomed Bali, a 6-year-old Royal Bourbon dog, for a therapeutic animal mediation session.
The sessions are orchestrated by Elissa, who found Bali after contacting numerous shelters. “She immediately understood what I expected of her,” Elissa remarked, adding with a smile, “After, she works for a treat – it’s not entirely altruistic!”
Approximately twenty of the seventy residents participated in the animal mediation, including seniors from the protected living unit (for those with Alzheimer’s or behavioral disorders) and independent residents. Nadine Igor, the residence’s animation manager, explained, “It’s a moment of conviviality.”
For 1 hour and 30 minutes, residents engaged with Bali, sparking conversation, laughter and a sense of well-being. “It soothes them, and we immediately notice them more fulfilled,” observed Nadine Igor.
Therapeutic Benefits
Beyond providing comfort, Bali’s sessions incorporate simple exercises to promote physical activity. “We can work on motor skills, for example by brushing the dog or giving him treats using tweezers. It requires gestures and coordination,” Elissa explained. The sessions also stimulate memory, self-confidence, and emotional regulation.
Elissa has observed tangible progress in various populations, including children and individuals with disabilities. “I have seen people overcome their fear of animals, others improve their communication,” she noted.
A Vocation Born from Experience
Elissa’s path to animal mediation began unexpectedly. Coming from a background in animation, she was deeply affected by her initial experiences in EHPADs. “I couldn’t connect with the residents, it was very difficult.”
The turning point came when she brought her own dog to work. “People who never smiled started to react. That’s when I knew I wanted to make this my career.”
After launching her activity in Paris, she settled in the Var region, now working with a diverse range of clients, including EHPADs, nurseries, schools, and individuals with disabilities.
Ensuring Safety and Quality
Working with vulnerable populations requires constant vigilance. “There can be sudden, unpredictable movements,” Elissa emphasized. Bali wears booties to prevent scratches. “I know her well. She knows how to let me know when she’s uncomfortable, and I adapt immediately.”
While demand for animal mediation is growing, the field currently lacks formal state recognition. “Nothing is recognized by the State today,” Elissa explained. She stresses the importance of training, requiring her two employees to be certified. She is open to accompanying and training motivated individuals in the field.
Animal mediation offers a unique form of communication, particularly valuable where verbal exchange may be challenging.