Everyone knows pets can improve the quality of our lives. We forge lasting relationships with these sweet, loyal creatures, and just thinking of them can put smiles on our faces. But did you know they improve your health, too? Decades of research prove it. That’s why when helping your loved one find the right assisted living facility for them, it’s important to consider the benefits of pet-friendly communities.
If mom and dad already have a pet, they’ll undoubtedly want to bring it with them wherever they move. But, if they are jumping into the pet arena for the first time, be sure you do your research together and drill down to the details; while many communities are pet-friendly, they are likely to have some restrictions. Learn whether they limit the type of animal, breed or size.
Finally, learn which breeds are best for seniors, and for their specific needs and lifestyle. Remember that an energetic puppy may be overwhelming, and in many cases, an elderly dog is a better option. Many studies specifically focus on the benefits of senior dog ownership but also consider that other pets, like cats or birds, can also provide some of the following benefits. There are countless reasons pets are a boon to your parent’s well-being, but check out the top 5.
1. Ward Off Depression
In the beginning, your loved one may feel lonely in an assisted living facility. That’s normal. Unfamiliar surroundings, new neighbors, and staff instead of family — it’s a big transition. To boot, the move to a senior community often follows the loss of a spouse or partner. Bouts of loneliness and depression are par for the course, so it’s important to look for ways to mitigate these symptoms. That’s why a familiar — or even a new — pet can be so important. Furbabies provide a degree of companionship and familiarity that cannot be overestimated.
2. Keep Active
Dogs are especially popular pets for seniors. Since these loyal companions need to be walked several times a day, they help keep seniors on the move, keep their weight down and their bodies more agile. While many pet-friendly assisted living facilities are prepared to lend a hand with pet care, taking the dog out, if they are able, can help motivate your parent to get a little bit of daily exercise and enjoy the fresh air on a regular basis.
3. Prevent Heart Disease
Spending time with pets can lower your blood pressure and exert a calming influence on mom and dad. That’s why dogs are often used as emotional support animals, or to help ease tension in stressful environments — finals week on college campuses, airports during busy seasons, and disaster sites, among many others. Many senior living communities even bring in therapy dogs from time to time. Studies have long shown that just a few minutes of petting a dog can bring down your blood pressure and prevent heart disease in the long run. When a pet can do the job of medication, it’s certainly something to consider.
4. Stay Sharp
Mental stimulation is important for seniors. When it comes to brain health, the old adage “use it or lose it” applies. The act of caring for their pet can help ward off dementia symptoms, and keep your loved one sharp. Researching different breeds, learning how to train them, and brushing up on some pet care best practices can keep their neurons firing. The responsibility of taking care of someone else and remembering each piece of the pet’s daily care also helps — and provides structure and purpose in their daily lives.
5. Socializing
Even in a community, seniors can sometimes feel isolated. It can become harder for them to meet new people and forge new relationships as they age. Even if their physical condition precludes walks, your parent may enjoy spending quality time with their fluffy friend on a patio or in a garden. This helps get them out of their apartments, gives them a change of scenery and, perhaps most importantly, makes them more likely to socialize. Dogs tend to attract the attention of those around them, which can be a great conduit for introductions. It’s a surefire way to improve your loved one’s mood and outlook.
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