COLORADO SPRINGS — The Flying Horse Foundation brought it's ranch program to seniors at the Inn at Garden Plaza Senior Living Facility, giving a little horse power to our greatest generation.
"We knew that our seniors being so isolated at the time were missing the opportunity to visit with the mini horses so we just decided if they can't come to us, we're going to come to them,"said Kelly Rosati, Executive Director of the Flying Horse Foundation.
Ponies of all shapes and sizes greeted the seniors. Rosati says being around horses is very therapeutic and has a healing affect.
"There's just something special about horse. There's never any judgment and there's an opportunity to connect sometimes in ways that people don't always experience," Rosati said.
Because of isolation and safer at home orders, most seniors spend their day in doors. This visit was a way for retired air balloon pilot, Connie Moreland, to get outside and enjoy some fresh air.
"It makes me feel like there are other things to do besides sitting in your room!" Moreland explained.
For others, the horses helped keep their mind off of what's been going on.
"It helps our attitude, and attitude is what it's all about," said Jeanne Long, a resident at the facility.
Some residents stood from their balconies and waved as the horses passed by. Long says even the smallest gesture can touch the most seasoned soul.
"Even though we can only wave to them, you are reaching out and touching them and it's wonderful," she said.
The Flying Horse Foundation also has a program for at-risk youth. For more information, click here.
