Seniors Thrive Through Connection with Therapy Horses in Ottawa

At a rural riding centre in Ottawa, seniors are discovering new strength and social connections through a unique program that pairs them with therapy horses. The Therapeutic Riding Association of Ottawa-Carleton (TROtt) hosted an event on October 20, 2023, showcasing its “HorsePower for Seniors” initiative, which aims to enhance both physical and emotional well-being through equine activities.

Participants at the event, held at the centre located on 6362 Bank Street in Greely, engaged in activities such as grooming and leading therapy horses. Friends Nahia Cudi and Ibtisan Abdul-Rahim expressed their joy and connection with the animals. “They are special to me. I’ve been raised in a small village, and we used to always have horses,” said Abdul-Rahim, highlighting the emotional bond she felt while walking alongside a therapy horse. Cudi, reflecting on her past experiences, noted, “Being with the horses is beautiful; I love it so much.”

Building Resilience and Community

According to Alanna McLelland, the program manager, the activities not only improve balance and mobility but also foster confidence and reduce feelings of social isolation. She shared a personal connection to the program, stating, “My grandmother had Alzheimer’s, and I think this program would have really benefited her. It makes me really happy to see other seniors involved in the program and to be able to have access to our facilities and our beautiful horses.”

Local politicians Bruce Fanjoy, a Member of Parliament, and George Darouze, a Member of Provincial Parliament, attended the event to show their support. The TROtt program receives funding from various government sources, including the New Horizons for Seniors Program and the Ontario Seniors Community Grant Program. These grants are designed to help community organizations implement activities that keep seniors active and socially engaged.

Long-Standing Commitment to Therapy Riding

John Ross, chair of the board for TROtt, emphasized the impact of their work, stating, “We get a chance to make a difference here. We had an opportunity to make a difference in the community, and we meet individuals every day, occasionally making a significant impact on their lives.” He noted the dual benefits of the program, explaining, “For a lot of our clients, the physical benefits, the mental benefits of riding or participating in our ground-based program come into play.”

TROtt has been providing therapeutic riding and other equine-assisted programs for individuals with disabilities for the past 50 years. The organization continues to foster a supportive environment where seniors can connect with horses and each other, making a positive difference in their lives.