Silver Saddles
ABC 11 coverage of the Silver Saddles program
“Wrinkles should merely indicate where smiles have been.” – Mark Twain
Our Silver Saddles program is designed for our senior communities. We strive to provide a meaningful activity that offers seniors the chance to connect with others, enjoy nature in a rural atmosphere, and interact with horses in a safe environment. We are committed to providing an experience that will benefit our participants physically, emotionally, and mentally.
We offer both private and group sessions. While our seniors do not generally ride, the interaction with horses may include activities such as grooming, decorating, observing a horse parade, and feeding treats (our equine staff's favorite!).
Many of our participants have memories of horses in their past. One resident said his experience at our barn brought back many fond memories of growing up on a ranch out west.
For more information on this program, contact our Silver Saddles coordinator, Rosa, at silversaddles@horseandbuddy.org.
Research suggests that incorporating horses into therapy provides older adults with a greater ability to live fully in the here-and-now. Often mirroring emotions and the physical demeanor of people who engage with them, horses provide opportunities to boost awareness about certain behaviors and may even help lessen the effects of anxiety, loneliness, and pain.
Horses can heal hearts, refresh souls, and fuel adventure!