The Gentle Connection:

A Lady, Her Tortoises, and the Language of Care

In the quiet moments of life, it's often the simplest connections that speak the loudest. For one of our ladies living with dementia, these connections come in the form of two steady companions: a boy and girl tortoise who have become more than just pets—they are her friends, her comfort, and her joy.

Yet you can see the unique bond

Whenever she sits in her garden she greets her tortoises as they shuffle out from their cosy enclosure, their slow yet purposeful movements each knowing where the juicy dandelion will be.

When talking to her I can see she knows what each little nod of the head means as she explains the way tortoise communicate to each other.

It’s in these exchanges that an extraordinary relationship unfolds—a bond rooted between the three of them. She recognizes the subtle differences in their behaviour, the way they separate as soon as they are on the grass both going in different directions “don’t worry she says they can’t get out” This deep understanding transcends words, offering a glimpse into the profound connections humans can share with animals, even across species.

The Healing Power of Companionship

For people living with dementia, moments of clarity and joy are treasures to be nurtured. These tortoises provide exactly that—a soothing presence that anchors her in the present moment. Caring for them brings a sense of purpose and routine, fostering independence and emotional well-being.