Aboyne, Ont.- Wellington County’s Long-Term Care Home, Wellington Terrace, has won the AdvantAge Ontario Innovation and Excellence - Supporting Seniors Award for its programme ‘Pet Therapy: Reigniting a Sense of Purpose and Responsibility for Seniors Living in Long Term Care.’
The award recognizes initiatives that demonstrate excellence, creativity, innovation, and measurable improvements in the quality of care and services for seniors across Ontario.
“I’m incredibly proud of the team at Wellington Terrace,” said Warden Chris White. “This award is well-deserved. It’s not just about having pets around; it’s about giving our residents a reason to wake up and get excited about their day and exactly the kind of innovation we want to see in Wellington County. Congratulations to everyone involved.”
Wellington Terrace's pet therapy programme transforms the traditional model by giving residents hands-on responsibilities and meaningful caregiving roles. Rather than brief animal visits, residents actively participate in experiences, including hatching chicks, raising ducklings, and fostering small animals through a partnership with the local humane society.
"Many residents struggle with a loss of purpose and responsibility after moving into long-term care," said Tiffany Wurdell, Life Enrichment Manager. "Our programme provides residents with real animal caregiving experiences, and the results speak for themselves; we’ve seen reduced isolation, decreased medication-seeking behaviors, and improved emotional well-being among residents.”
Wellington Terrace was honored at the AdvantAge Ontario Annual Convention Awards Celebration on April 22, receiving a framed certificate and $1,000 prize.
“Prize money will be used to enhance the Terrace’s animal programme,” added Wurdell.
Wellington Terrace team members Tiffany Wurdell and Caitlyn Cheyne, Recreation Therapist accepted the award on behalf of the organization.
About Wellington Terrace
Wellington Terrace is Wellington County’s 176-room Long Term Care Home, featuring spectacular views of the Elora-Fergus countryside. The Terrace team is committed to delivering innovative, person-centered care that enhances quality of life and creates meaningful experiences for every resident.
Media Contact: Tiffany Wurdell, Life Enrichment Manager, 519.846.5359 x 7236, tiffanyw@wellington.ca