Equine Therapy for Seniors: Bringing Joy Through Horses
Equine therapy offers seniors a unique way to connect, engage, and enjoy meaningful moments through interaction with horses. At ComForCare Home Care in South Indy, this program is designed to support emotional well-being while creating positive, memorable experiences.
Led by Beth Bigham, President of ComForCare South Indy / Franklin and 2023 Franchisee of the Year, this service combines years of senior care experience with a lifelong passion for horses. Each visit is planned with care, safety, and comfort in mind.
The Power of Horses in Senior Care
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Reduce stress and anxiety
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Ease feelings of loneliness and isolation
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Encourage social interaction
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Stay mentally engaged
Beth’s Journey: A Lifelong Connection to Horses
Meet Merlin & Ivory: A Two-Fold Equine Therapy Experience
The equine therapy program offers two distinct experiences to meet different interests and abilities.
Merlin, a miniature horse owned by Tonda, is calm, patient, and comfortable with close interaction. Seniors can pet, talk to, and spend time with him at their own pace.
Ivory, a gentle white draft horse owned by Beth, makes carriage rides possible through a custom Cinderella pumpkin carriage. The carriage is Disney-designed, making the Cinderella name fitting, and features a low step that allows easier access for seniors.
Not all horses are suited for therapy work. Careful selection ensures Merlin and Ivory are relaxed, steady, and comfortable in senior-focused settings. Ivory now enjoys a lighter role after years of heavy work, while Merlin is known for standing quietly, welcoming attention and affection.
A Partnership Built on Shared Experience
This equine therapy service was developed in partnership with Tonda Burgin, owner of Life Vintage Farms and McQualla Carriages. With more than 50 years of experience working with horses, Tonda brings deep knowledge in selecting and training horses suited for senior interaction.
Together, Beth and Tonda share a commitment to creating engaging, well-planned equine experiences for seniors throughout the South Indy community.
Creating Meaningful Experiences for Seniors
Equine therapy visits and events are planned to create positive, engaging moments. From carriage rides to hands-on interaction with a miniature horse, each experience is designed to help seniors feel included and valued.
These visits often become highlights for seniors and caregivers alike, offering connection, conversation, and enjoyment.
Expanding Equine Therapy in South Indy
Bring Equine Therapy to Your Loved One
If you’re interested in equine therapy for a senior in your life, ComForCare Home Care is here to help.
Partnering with ComForCare Home Care in South Indy, IN can make it easier to arrange equine therapy experiences for seniors. Call (317) 664-5136 to learn more or get started.
You can also view photos from recent equine therapy visits on our Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/ComForCareHomeCareSouthIndy