Heartland Mini Hoofs to Visit LMH Swing Bed Patients, Launching Animal-Assisted Therapy Initiative

Lincoln Memorial Hospital (LMH) will welcome Heartland Mini Hoofs on Sept. 28 as part of a new animal-assisted therapy initiative designed to enhance the healing experience for swing bed patients.

The miniature horses will visit swing bed patients during a group therapy session in the Steinfort Conference Room, providing companionship, comfort and encouragement as patients continue their recovery journey.

LMH's swing bed program serves patients who no longer require acute hospital care but still need skilled nursing, rehabilitation and support before returning home. The program offers individualized care close to home, helping patients regain strength and independence through services such as physical, occupational and speech therapy.

"Recovery is about more than medical care; it's about helping patients regain confidence, strength and hope," said Amy Knox, rehabilitation services supervisor at LMH. "Our swing bed program provides personalized therapy and skilled care close to home, and opportunities like animal-assisted therapy help make the recovery experience more meaningful and engaging for our patients."

Animal-assisted therapy has been shown to help reduce stress and support emotional well-being. The visit from Heartland Mini Hoofs reflects LMH's commitment to providing a healing environment that addresses both physical and emotional recovery.

Heartland Mini Hoofs provides animal-assisted interactions throughout Illinois, bringing miniature horses to healthcare and community settings to create meaningful connections and moments of joy.

The Sept. 28 visit marks the beginning of LMH's effort to incorporate animal-assisted therapy opportunities into patient care experiences. For more information about the LMH swing bed program, visit https://memorial.health/medical-services/swing-bed-program/.