Kraichgau llamas cause a stir at the senior citizens' home Domizil am Leimbach in Sandhausen.
(Mannheim, 20.01.2022) A visit to a retirement home? No drama for a llama. Ludwig and Zorro trot into the facility of ASB Mannheim/Rhine-Neckar Region completely relaxed. Even the elevator can't scare them. "They are particularly lovely animals," says Rebecca Albrecht of the Kraichgau llamas from Waibstadt. The enthusiasm among the residents knows no bounds. "They are so cute," resounds through the corridors and common rooms. Ludwig and Zorro are patiently stroked and petted by everyone. "Do they spit?" asks one resident. Rebecca Albrecht reassures the senior citizen. Llamas only spit at each other and only when they are fighting over food. Llama Ludwig and alpaca Zorro show their friendliest side, curiously looking around everywhere. Even the employees melt away, so many selfies have not been taken here for a long time.
Llamas like to visit
"Our animals are particularly suitable for visits to senior citizens' homes or other institutions," Rebecca Albrecht reports, "they are very peaceful and not afraid of people." Of the 31 animals Albrecht keeps on a farm near Waibstadt in the Kraichgau region, Ludwig and Zorro are among the most relaxed. Even the two hours at Domizil am Leimbach don't bother them. On the contrary, the two enjoy the attention and like to be petted. "They are quite calm fellows," Albrecht laughs. She has been taking tours, excursions and visits with the llamas and alpacas for 10 years. The occupational therapist also offers animal-assisted therapies.
Visit is more than a welcome change
"Especially in Corona times, it is very important that we offer a program to our residents," says Jennifer Rudek, director of the ASB senior citizens' home Domizil am Leimbach. "The pandemic has exacerbated the isolation and loneliness of many," she reports. The llamas' visit will be a topic of conversation for many days to come. "We want to enable the people who live with us to have joy and fun in their everyday lives," Jennifer Rudek emphasizes. This includes visits or special events, but also joint daily activities such as baking, handicrafts or cooking. "The intensive care and individual support of each person is particularly important to us," she says. The senior residence in Sandhausen, operated by ASB Mannheim/Rhein-Neckar, provides a total of 75 nursing apartments in small, family-style living areas. In addition, there are 33 residential units for assisted living as well as the offer of short-term care for people who only need care and support for a temporary period.
The ASB Mannheim/Rhine-Neckar Region operates five senior citizens' homes in the Heidelberg area as well as a senior citizens' advisory service and several offers for outpatient care services, day care and assisted living in Mannheim, Heidelberg and the Rhine-Neckar district. fek