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Weather Policy
The decision to cancel sessions takes into account the safety and well-being of participants, equines, and volunteers at all times. Sessions may be canceled on a case-by-case basis at the discretion of the EASE program director. Rain, thunderstorms, lighting, and severe temperatures will all be considerations for cancellations.
Meet Our Equine Team
Admiral
Ransom
Sophie
Olive
Location
Our four-week sensory program takes place within the beautiful, natural setting of the Foothills Equestrian Nature Center- FENCE in Tryon, North Carolina. Participants will engage and connect with horses and other equine animals in a range of therapeutic activities alongside our trained volunteers at Rosemary's Barn on the FENCE campus. Additionally, caregivers can enjoy respite time walking along the nature trails within the 384-acre property.
Program Structure
EASE is composed of both a spring and fall program, each consisting of two separate 90-minute sessions during a four-week period. We limit each session to only two clients to ensure a highly tailored and hands-on experience. Each session includes an individual 20-minute exercise period, a 20-minute sensory activity, and a 20-minute joint equine engagement activity. The session schedule includes time for welcome, transfer between activities, and goodbyes.
About EASE
Equine Assisted Senior Engagement is a free sensory program designed to provide equine support to those with early-stage dementia, mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and Parkinson's. Our program aims to improve clients sensory, motor, cognitive, and behavioral function for improved health and wellness. We focus on a sensory experience for each of our participants, while creating a sense of awareness, confidence, and social connection within a carefully structured and supervised environment.
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