English Title

Abstract

Apre-experimental nonequivalent group investigation was used to develop an instrument to assess the knowledge and the way health professionals in Puerto Rico (PR)manage the needs and services for elderly patients, the knowledge of Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT) and its benefits, and their perception about including this type of intervention for the elderly in Nursing Homes. Atotal of 20 health professionals participated. The results show that more than half of the health professionals indicated that they have knowledge of AAT. However, the results show that a majority of the health professionals said that they don't know programs in PR for elderly specifically using AAT All the participants said that they believe that a program of this type would be beneficial. These results, justify developing specific AAT programs for the elderly. This program could be used to intervene with elderly residing in nursing homes in a preventive way and also to improve their quality of life.