Exmoor Zoo brings the wild to Edenmore Nursing Home

People living at Edenmore Nursing Home in Ilfracombe might expect to see visiting dogs and cats on occasion, but not a meerkat, python, or praying mantis!

Exmoor Zoo visited the home with its educational roadshow, taking along an array of exotic creatures that also included a stick insect and a giant snail.

The home invited the zoo to visit residents – fondly known as ’family members’ – and the visit by education officer Portia soon encouraged conversation, curiosity and reminiscence among them, many of whom have a lifelong love of animals.

For Alan, who lives at the home, animals have always been an important part of life. Having previously owned foxes, the chance to hold and interact with some of the zoo’s creatures brought back fond memories.

His daughter, Sue, shared how much these experiences mean to him, reflecting the value of continuing familiar interests and passions in later life.

The presence of animals in the home provides more than just entertainment, it offers comfort, sensory engagement, and opportunities for connection.

For those living with a dementia, engaging with animals can be particularly calming, helping to spark memories and meaningful moments.

Edenmore Nursing Home says it is committed to ensuring ‘family members’ have access to inclusive and community focused activities that make everyday life feel familiar and purposeful.

Partnering with community organisations such as Exmoor Zoo allows them to engage with the world around them.

For more about Exmoor Zoo and its educational outreach programmes, visit the Exmoor Zoo Facebook page.