Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA Singapore)

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RDA Singapore is the only charity in Singapore that provides Equine-Assisted Therapy, also termed hippotherapy or horse riding therapy

The range of disabilities that can benefit from hippotherapy include:

Physical disabilities such as Cerebral Palsy, Muscular Dystrophy, Visual impairment, Hearing Impairment, CVA (Stroke)

Cognitive or Intellectual disabilities such as Down’s Syndrome and Autism Spectrum Disorder

Horses provide a tool for physical therapy and cognitive improvement in a unique format that is fun and exhilarating. Mankind has also believed for centuries that horses might even have the power to change a person’s perspective on life. Besides the physical benefits derived from hippotherapy, the contact with the animal is a powerful experience, and the strong bond that can be formed often has a profound and uplifting effect on people who are troubled or suffering.

We work with virtually all types of disabilities, both physical and learning disabilities, in children and adults. Beneficiaries experience an increase in self-confidence, improved circulation, respiration, balance, motor coordinatioты and mobility. For someone who is unable to walk unaided, see or has difficulties communicating, riding a horse offers them a new sense of freedom and independence.

The wheelchair-bound, for example, walk tall on a horse and they can venture into the forest or jungle for a walk.
A horse communicates with a non-verbal and withdrawn beneficiary in a way that only the beneficiary can understand. Beautiful friendships are made and, as many of the beneficiaries will attest to, the therapy sessions are fun!

Image Credit: RDA Singapore