Alpacas bring joy to Cherry Hinton Care Home
Residents at Cherry Hinton Care Home were treated to a very special visit this week when five friendly alpacas from Gorefield Alpacas came to spend time with them.
The gentle animals were welcomed with smiles, laughter, and plenty of excitement as they walked through the home and even popped into residents’ rooms for a cuddle. Their soft coats and calm nature made them instant favourites, and many residents said the alpacas reminded them of happy times spent with animals in their younger years.
Visits like these are more than just fun – they have a real impact on wellbeing. Spending time with animals is known to reduce stress, lift moods, and encourage social interaction. For residents, the alpacas brought a sense of novelty and delight to the day, sparking conversations and happy memories long after the visit ended.
The team at Cherry Hinton Care Home expressed their gratitude to Gorefield Alpacas for bringing such joy and comfort to the home. Staff said it was heartwarming to see the residents so animated, engaged, and full of smiles.
One resident summed it up perfectly: “They are such beautiful animals – today has really made me happy.”
Cherry Hinton Care Home looks forward to welcoming the alpacas back in the future for more magical moments.
Animals can have a really positive impact on residents in care homes, both emotionally and physically. Here are some of the key ways they help
Emotional Benefits
- Reduce loneliness – Animals provide companionship, helping residents feel less isolated.
- Lift moods – Stroking or interacting with animals can release “feel-good” hormones like serotonin and oxytocin, which ease stress and encourage happiness.
- Encourage reminiscence – Many residents recall memories of pets they once had, which can spark conversations and a sense of connection.
Cognitive Benefits
- Stimulate conversation – Animals create a talking point, helping residents engage more with staff and each other.
- Improve focus – Watching and interacting with animals can hold attention and bring calm, especially helpful for those living with dementia.
Physical Benefits
- Encourage movement – Gentle grooming, feeding, or even walking an animal encourages light physical activity.
- Lower blood pressure & heart rate – Studies show being around animals can help reduce stress levels.
- Sensory stimulation – Touching soft fur, hearing gentle noises, or even smelling familiar scents can engage the senses.
Social Benefits
- Strengthen community bonds – Visits from therapy animals or farm animals often bring residents, staff, and families together.
- Promote routine – Regular visits give residents something to look forward to, creating positive anticipation.