Karla Maddux-leffingwell

Until a cure is found, families need access to programs focused on care and support of people living with Alzheimer's and heart disease. This program consists of horse-assisted learning activities and discussion for people with memory loss, mild cognitive impairment, and early-stage dementia diagnoses and their care partners. The connection between an individual and a horse has proven to be therapeutic. The human-horse connection is especially powerful as the non-verbal responses and behaviors of the horse provide immediate feedback, and often act as a mirror to the participants to provide clarity, strength, and healing. 

All the work is done from the ground, and participants do not need prior horse experience. 

*Improve quality of life

*Experience empathy and self-value

*Relax and motivate individual motor skills

*Decrease episodes of aggression and anxiety

*Increase social interaction