Horse riding can be therapeutic because it involves the movement of the whole body, joints and muscles. Sitting on a horse increases movement and stretches muscles. Common exercises in a clinical setup can sometimes be stressful but trail rides can be interesting knowing that you will be touring to different surroundings.
Horses and horse back riding can be exciting. But will handicap people do to this kind of activity? How can they enjoy riding horses if they have disabilities and they are fearful of what the trainers and other people will say to them?
These are only a few of the major concerns of certain organizations dealing with horses and the handicaps. Some of these organizations are:
1. Westwind 4 H Riding. October 1978 marked the beginning of Westwind. This organization provides instruction about horseback riding for physically handicapped. 5 to 19 years old individuals are eligible to join. They are also accepting volunteers with at least 14 years of age.
Westwind 4H sessions are held during spring, winter and fall; definitely year round. Classes are held every Mondays and Thursdays from 4 – 5 pm. Sessions last for 8 weeks; students will be handled by different volunteers and professional riders. During the month of July, a short summer class is also being offered.
The 4H Center is located in Los Altos Hills. They have their own horses and to date they have 8 horses and many ponies.
Basically, the volunteers are the backbone of the program. They care for both horses and the clients.
2. Riding for the Disabled or RDA. Primarily, the mission of RDA is to provide assisted activities (connected with horses) among disabled people to enhance and develop their abilities. RDA is one organization which offers multi diagnostic services among people of various disabilities such as learning disorders, cerebral palsy, intellectual disabilities, multiple sclerosis, hearing impairments and other accident related injuries.
Programs such as carriage driving, vaulting, horse riding and dressage aim to provide training, sport, riding therapy, safety and recreation among the handicaps.
Riding for the Disabled have branches in other countries, namely:
- RDA NSW in Australia aims to encourage and assist other centers in providing necessary therapeutic programs for the handicaped. The funding, management details and training are also included in the list.
- RDA Singapore offers free lessons on horseback riding among physically and mentally disabled individuals. Volunteers are also accepted.
- RDA Hong Kong on the other hand is a charitable organization that teaches handicaped children and adults on how to ride horses for fun and therapy.
3. Flying Changes Center Inc. Flying Changes Center serves 60 to 80 diagnosed disabled adults and children from 3 years of age to senior years. There are 300 individuals served by the Center annually. State agencies, group homes, schools and rehabilitation centers generally referred clients to the Center.
The Center implements experiential and rhythmic movements of horses alongside the bonding of animal and human. Another good point of the organization is that they work closely with family members, educational, medical and social service specialists to better develop equine programs.
Flying Changes Center depends on funding and contribution from sponsors and outside sources. In 2004 alone, almost 70% of the disabled clients were Medicare Eligible and belong to low income level family.
It is pretty obvious that many riding programs for handicaps are appearing in many countries. While their utmost concern is for the disabled to enjoy, important things must also be looked upon before engaging your loved ones to these programs. Some of them are:
- The program must be safe with gentle horses or ponies.
- Gears such as helmets must be provided.
- Stable and horses must be clean.
- The professional rider must assist the student in getting on and off the horse. Riders must have credible records or licenses and must show patience and dedication in instructing the students.
Horse riding can give both physiological and psychological benefits. It builds self esteem and confidence. It can develop balance and coordination and gives free movements to the handicap. It can offer a sense of fulfillment other than fun and excitement. It also enhances cooperation among the able bodied and the disabled. So fear no more, let your child or relatives enjoy horse riding and see them grow!
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