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Senior adults get a "Taste of the Fair"

Ventana by Buckner hosts its own version of the Texas State Fair during the pandemic

When the Texas State Fair had to cancel due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Ventana by Buckner found a way to make sure its residents could still enjoy the iconic fall outing without leaving the parking lot. 

Residents were able to move around the parking lot to experience several fair activities such as petting mini horses from nonprofit Equest, eat some Fletcher’s Corn Dogs, enjoy live music and even take a photo with Big Tex in a photo booth. 

"Most of our members here at Ventana have been going to the state fair since they were kids and it is a family tradition," said Lauren Saloom, director of lifestyle services. "Today is about remembering their traditions, being able to honor them and inspiring the happiness they have always had in the middle of the pandemic."

Therapeutic activities aid in senior adult health 

While horses are a state fair staple, the presence of the mini horses provided an additional therapeutic activity, aiding to the health of senior adults experiencing dementia and memory loss. 

One study conducted by Ohio State University found that equine therapy for senior adults improved their moods throughout the day. 

The pandemic doesn’t have to cancel fun

The Ventana “Taste of the Fair” proves that with a little ingenuity, one can still celebrate traditions and have fun, even during a pandemic.  

“Even though the rest of the world doesn’t get to have the fair, they will have it here at Ventana,” Saloom said.

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