Supporting people with dementia goes beyond medical care. It means creating opportunities for meaningful experiences, social connection, physical activity and time spent together with the people who matter most.
As Chris Brabant, CEO of Stoughton Health, puts it, “Being a community health partner means meeting people where they are and sometimes that means meeting them at the barn.”
That is why Stoughton Health is proud to support Three Gaits and its Riding in the Moment™ program. This partnership helps provide an experience that is difficult to replicate in a traditional healthcare setting, combining movement, animals, nature and meaningful social connection.
Riding in the Moment™ is an equine-assisted program designed to enhance quality of life for adults living with early- to middle-stage dementia and their family members and care partners. Through an eight-week session, participants visit the Three Gaits farm and take part in a variety of horse-related activities. Depending on their interests and abilities, participants may ride, groom or simply spend time interacting with the horses and enjoying the outdoors. No previous horse experience is required, and participants do not have to ride to benefit from the experience.
The program also intentionally includes care partners, creating an opportunity for people with dementia and those who support them to share a positive experience together.
As a community health partner, Stoughton Health recognizes the importance of supporting the whole person rather than just a diagnosis. Our investment in Riding in the Moment™ reflects our commitment to strengthening community-based resources that promote connection, engagement and quality of life for people living with dementia and those who care for them.
Together with Three Gaits, we are helping create opportunities for people with dementia and their care partners to experience something meaningful, active and joyful while connecting with others in a setting far removed from a traditional healthcare environment.
