Many pet owners know how comforting and relaxing it is to have their beloved cat or dog (or both!) curl up next to them on the couch. Pets offer companionship, comfort, and—for many pet owners—become another member of the family. The bond between people and pets can be very strong, and pets have proven to enhance the quality of life for their owners.
For seniors, pets also provide several important health advantages, such as helping them reduce their stress and anxiety. Let’s explore the role pets have in enhancing the quality of life for seniors.
Benefits of Pets for Seniors
Many people talk about their pets as if they’re a member of the family, and it’s easy to see why! Pets provide unconditional love, companionship, and a sense of responsibility and routine.
Companionship
Social circles tend to get smaller as we age, which often leads to social isolation or loneliness. Pets provide constant companionship and unconditional love, reducing these negative feelings.
Building a relationship with a beloved pet doesn’t take a long time, and often within a few minutes of meeting, the pet is nuzzling their new owner’s face or knee or purring into their neck. Animals aren’t there to judge. They simply want to love and be loved, which is a powerful and comforting feeling.
For seniors who want the benefits of pet companionship but are unable to own a pet, there are even robotic cats and dogs that provide companionship and comfort with the added benefit of convenience.
Exercise
Pets encourage physical activity, whether it’s taking Fido for a walk, or throwing a toy mouse to Evie. Walks, playtime, and grooming help motivate seniors to engage in physical activity and stay active.
Regular exercise helps maintain flexibility, mobility, and overall health. Taking a dog for a walk makes exercise a regular part of the day, promoting cardiovascular fitness. It can even help with encouraging social interaction with other pet owners at the dog park or in town.
A Sense of Responsibility and Routine
Maintaining a routine as we age is critical. A daily schedule provides a sense of purpose when there are fewer responsibilities in our lives, such as a job or taking care of children. Caring for a pet naturally reintroduces responsibility and routine into the owner’s life.
Feeding times, grooming, and regular veterinary care provide structure for the days and weeks. This helps the senior establish and maintain a structured daily routine, as well as a sense of purpose, accomplishment, and motivation.
Improved Blood Pressure and Reduced Stress
Studies have shown that pets can have positive health effects. Interacting with animals has a calming effect, and petting animals releases oxytocin, which is a hormone that reduces stress and promotes bonding. Owning a pet has also been shown to lower blood pressure and cut down on levels of stress hormones, which contributes to better heart health.
Socialization
Owning a pet encourages social interaction with others, whether it’s another pet owner who’s a friend, or someone in the park who can’t resist talking with you about your dog and asking if they can pet it. Opportunities for making new friends can be more difficult as an adult and as a senior, but pets make these types of interactions more natural and common.
Whether it’s taking the dog for a walk in town or in the park, or striking up a conversation with another animal lover at a pet store, there are plenty more opportunities for new friendships. Pets also are natural conversation starters and can help seniors overcome shyness that they may feel when trying to make new friends.
Independent Living Communities That Allow Pets for Seniors
Did you know that several independent living communities are pet friendly? It’s true! Not only do communities like Bethesda allow pets, but these furry friends are welcomed (and they may even provide designated areas where Fido can be taken for a walk!) These communities offer all the benefits of a maintenance-free lifestyle with the added bonus of a lifelong home for seniors and their pets.
