Silver Saddles

ABC 11 coverage of the Silver Saddles program

"I wanted to thank you for having us. It was such an amazing and therapeutic experience. It was so great to have our seniors get up close to the horses. They were very happy to be there and experience something new. Horses really do have a special power to heal people!"

Our Silver Saddles program is designed to enrich the lives of older adults through meaningful connection, engaging activities, and time spent with horses. We strive to create unique experiences that encourage social interaction, provide opportunities to enjoy nature, and foster emotional, mental, and physical well-being in a safe and welcoming environment.

We offer both private and group sessions tailored to the interests and abilities of our participants. While Silver Saddles is primarily a non-riding program, participants enjoy hands-on interactions with our horses. These experiences often spark joy, conversation, and cherished memories.

For many participants, horses reconnect them to meaningful moments from their past. One resident shared that visiting our barn brought back fond memories of growing up on a ranch out west.

Research suggests that equine-assisted activities can help older adults stay present, socially engaged, and emotionally connected. A 2022 review published in the International Journal of Nursing Sciences found that equine-assisted interventions may improve emotional well-being and social interaction in older adults. Researchers Kathy Lee and Holly Dabelko-Schoeny also found that older adults participating in equine-assisted programs reported a greater sense of purpose, connection, and accomplishment.

Horses can heal hearts, refresh souls, and fuel adventure!