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Effects of a Form of Equine-Facilitated Learning on Heart Rate Variability, Immune Function, and Self-Esteem in Older Adults

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A fascinating study published in People and Animals: The International Journal of Research and Practice explored how equine-facilitated learning (EFL) impacts the body and mind of older adults. Researchers Ann L. Baldwin (University of Arizona), Barbara K. Rector, and Ann C. Alden (Adventures in Awareness) looked at how interacting with horses could affect heart rate variability (HRV), immune function, and self-esteem.


What They Did

  • Participants: 24 adults over the age of 55

  • Activity: A 15-minute EFL exercise called Con Su Permiso, where participants tuned into their bodily sensations while moving toward and around a horse.

  • Control: The same exercise done with a human instead of a horse.

  • Measurements: HRV, heart and breathing rates, self-esteem (via the Rosenberg scale), and immune function (salivary immunoglobulin A).


Key Findings

  • Physiological Response: Both horse and human interactions boosted HRV and breathing rates. With horses, participants’ HRV shifted more strongly to the very low frequency range, linked with calm, restorative states.

  • Horse Reactions: The four horses showed varied responses, but their HRV also leaned toward this calm VLF range.

  • Self-Esteem: Participants’ self-esteem increased after both horse and human interactions.

  • Immune Function: No significant change was found in immune markers (sIgA).

  • Emotional Expression: Exit interviews revealed participants used more positive words and gestures when describing their time with horses compared to humans.


Why It Matters

This study suggests that spending even a short time with horses may help older adults feel more alive, balanced, and emotionally uplifted—without adding stress. While immune function didn’t shift, the emotional and physiological benefits point to EFL as a promising wellness practice for aging populations.


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