The Benefits of Pets for Seniors
By Ewa Frydel, Owner
For many seniors who are aging in place, there are times when they are alone.
One reason why seniors choose to join an assisted living facility or nursing home is because they are surrounded by others. Although, one reason our elderly do not choose to enter these facilities is because the other people are strangers. Unfamiliar.
Maintaining independence takes a brave soul because it requires much strength and discipline.
In some cases, strength is needed to combat feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Our senior loved ones aging at home often battle with depression because there are moments when they do not have visitors or someone to say goodnight to or wake up with. This is why visiting your aging parents is crucial.
Each day, your senior should have contact with someone whether that person is a family member or caregiver who serves as a companion.
When a person can’t make a visit, who can you turn to?
Pets.
Let’s look into the benefits of pets for your mom or dad.
The Benefits of Pets for Seniors
Constant Companionship. Dogs are typically the pet that people consider most attached to their owner. However, many cats and even birds can develop a strong bond with their human. Pets are always there, ready to listen, cuddle, and offer unconditional love. This alone can allow your elderly parent to know there is always someone there whenever they need them.
Improved Happiness and Physical Health. Pets require us to move our bodies. They need care. Dogs need walks and cats need a feather toy waving around. The care involved with a pet can help increase your senior’s mobility and get them moving. This also allows your senior to be present with their pet. Being present helps anyone improve their mental health. In moments when your mom or dad could be sitting alone, thinking of their loneliness, they can rather be distracted with their loving pet, keeping their thoughts on the bond they share.
Social Interaction. Feelings of isolation go hand-in-hand with not having anyone around to talk to. A pet may not speak our language but they can learn your senior’s voice. They can understand certain phrases and commands. They definitely understand the language of love and positive energy. What’s more, your senior can and will converse with their pet. The brain may not associate the difference. While speaking with another person is important, between visits their pet acts as a living companion during conversations.
Sense of Purpose. Loneliness can often be associated with not having a purpose anymore. For many seniors, caring for their loved ones was a large part of their lives. Raising children, helping with grandchildren, nurturing a spouse or siblings, you name it. When everyone is grown old and not requiring extra care, your senior can lose their sense of purpose. That is why a pet is beneficial! Your elderly parent has someone to look out for again. They will feel a purpose to care for their pet by feeding them, walking them, playing with them, offering clean water, and giving loving pets and cuddles.
It’s difficult to argue that a pet offers great support for seniors feeling isolated or lonely. Many may say that pets are messy or can become aggressive. However, thousands and thousands of households have one or more pets and benefit greatly from unconditional love. For most, finding the right pet is easy because there is an instant connection.
If you are considering adopting or buying a pet for your senior loved one, bring your senior along. Allow them to discern the bond between them and choose which pet they want to have by their side, in their home, each and every day.
For more questions about pets and seniors, contact us.
We’re here to help!
Legal Disclaimer
This blog provides general information and discussions about pets for the elderly and are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice.
