Pets are trusted companions who bring joy, comfort, and love into our lives. Pets for seniors offer even more benefits. Having a pet can:
Whether it's a dog's wagging tail, a cat's purr, or the soothing presence of a small pet, having an animal around can make a world of difference. A HABRI and Mars Petcare survey found that 80% of pet owners turn to their pets for comfort when they feel lonely.
Moreover, the same source indicates that 54% of the respondents said their pets help them connect with others, strengthening their sense of belonging in the community.
Keep reading to discover how pets can have a lasting effect on seniors and enhance their senior years.
For many seniors, loneliness can be a real issue. Pets offer much-needed emotional support, making seniors feel less isolated. Consider the following:
Pets provide a sense of calm and stability, especially during tough times. They also foster a sense of connection and give seniors a sense of purpose.
The American Psychiatric Association's survey found that 86% of pet owners believe pets positively impact their mental health. According to the feedback from the participants, they experienced the following benefits:
Pets are great for keeping seniors mentally active. Consider the following:
Caring for an animal requires routine, attention, and problem-solving, all of which can prevent cognitive decline.
Pets do more than just support emotional health; they can also improve physical health and continued independence. Here's how they support this:
Pets, particularly dogs, encourage seniors to engage in daily physical activity. Regular walking helps to:
Spending time with pets has been shown to lower stress levels, which directly contributes to reducing blood pressure. Petting a cat or dog has been linked to releasing oxytocin, a hormone that reduces stress and fosters feelings of connection.
Several studies have demonstrated the connection between pet ownership and heart health. Walking, playing, and caring for a pet can contribute to a healthier heart by lowering cholesterol and promoting better circulation.
Many senior living communities, such as The Remington, offer pet-friendly options to help residents feel more at home. Bringing pets can make transitioning to a new living environment easier and more comfortable. To support pet ownership, they offer the following:
They may be able to assist with coordinating grooming or vet appointments, ensuring that pets are well cared for and that residents can enjoy the companionship of their furry friends without added stress.
The best pets for senior community living typically require less maintenance and are easy to care for. Here are some suitable options for seniors to consider:
Choose a pet that fits your daily routine and environment. Assess your lifestyle and preferences. Do you prefer a more independent pet, or are you looking for a companion that needs more interaction?
If you have limited mobility or strength, consider a pet that needs less physical activity, such as a cat or small dog. Alternatively, fish or small mammals are also good low-maintenance options.
Assess the pet's temperament before making your final decision. A calm, affectionate pet will be a great companion during your senior years.
Support animals for seniors can be trained or untrained, depending on the specific needs and circumstances. Here's the difference:
Service animals, typically dogs, assist with specific tasks related to a senior's physical or mental disability. They are trained to perform tasks like:
Service animals are recognized under laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and are allowed in areas where pets are not.
These animals do not need specific training. They offer companionship and emotional support to help ease symptoms of conditions like:
While they may be well-behaved, emotional support pets for the elderly are not formally trained to perform tasks. They typically don't have the same legal rights as service animals but can live with seniors in housing that do not usually allow pets.
Allowing pets for seniors in retirement communities can be a great idea and has several benefits. Many senior communities are already pet-friendly, recognizing the positive impact pets can have on the well-being of their residents. Senior living with pets can enhance the overall living experience of seniors, fostering happiness and better mental health.
The Remington offers a peaceful, pet-friendly environment just minutes from shopping, dining, and Civic Center Park. Residents enjoy spacious apartments, beautifully landscaped grounds, and daily social events. Experience independent living at its best; contact us today to learn more.