Pets can bring so much joy to our lives. There is nothing like the excitement of a wagging tail to greet you at the door or the comfort of snuggling down with a purring cat. Many people lovingly refer to them as their “furbabies”, providing a high level of care and indulgence to their pets. Whether you are a dog person, a cat person, or fond of another species of pet altogether, it’s scientifically proven that having an animal in your life can have positive health benefits.
Pets love us unconditionally. They don’t care how we look, what we’re wearing or if we cheated on our diet. This emotional connection with an animal can actually increase our brain’s production of serotonin which sets off a chain reaction that can lead to lowering blood pressure and stress levels almost immediately. For elderly persons suffering from Alzheimer’s or dementia, this bonding time with an animal can help calm them down and relieve the stress they may be experiencing as a result of their disease. Dogs seem to have a sixth sense when people are feeling scared or nervous, and their comforting presence can reduce cortisol levels (stress) and boost serotonin – which can be very important for a senior about to undergo a surgery or other procedure.
For an older person who is living alone, the feelings of isolation and depression can become overwhelming. If they are able to care for a pet, having another living creature in the home can give that elderly person a new lease on life. The cat, dog or even a fish can provide companionship and combat feelings of loneliness. Because that animal depends on their human companion to provide food, water and shelter, the feeling of being needed can go a long way to giving a senior a new purpose, especially if they have recently lost a loving spouse or other person close to their heart. Studies show that the comforting presence of having a pet in the home can mean a person stays healthier longer.
Having a pet can also keep us physically healthier, too. Walking a dog, or taking them to the park or to play with other pets means their owners stay more mobile and healthier, too. This can translate to improved cardiovascular health and can have an impact on other health conditions, especially in older people. For persons with arthritis in their arms or hands, the simple act of petting a dog or a cat can be a workout with positive benefits. The encouraging “smile” of a dog can also be a motivating factor that helps many seniors to work harder during physical or occupational therapy, which ultimately helps them regain motor skills that may have been lost during a stroke or other illness.
Many assisted living and supportive living communities allow their residents to have pets in their apartments. Talk to the director or community relations person at the community nearest you to find out what their pet policy is. Activities and other events often bring in different animals for the residents to visit with and learn about. And some communities allow pet therapy animals to visit residents on a regular basis to provide the healing power and comforting presence of a cat or dog. You can reach out to the Evergreen Senior Living community in your area by visiting our website and finding the location that is closest to you.
