The Harmónia Animal Park was set up in September 2004. The primary objectives in establishing the mini zoo were to provide residents with another leisure option, to give them a focus of attention and therefore a point of contact, and to exploit the therapeutic aspects of animals.
Even though animals cannot be a substitute for human relations, pets and domesticated animals can have important emotional associations for the elderly.
Old people who regularly spend time with, or look after, animals come to sense that the animals need them, and this in itself is of therapeutic value. The sense of responsibility the elderly or sick may come to feel about animals can also find expression in a desire to devote more attention and care to themselves. Research has shown that elderly people suffering from Alzheimer's disease or chronic arteriosclerosis smile more, are happier, friendlier, more communicative and less hostile towards their carers.
In choosing the animals to stock the park we have attempted to find the right species offering suitable attractions and which are also appropriate from therapeutic aspects.
Source: oficial site of Harmónia Residential Care Village for the Elderly (2010)