The Benefits of Pets for Seniors

Beloved pets are just like another member of the family. They can bring so many joys to our lives. Having a pet around can also be beneficial for senior citizens. While pets do bring along responsibilities and sometimes frustrations, often having a pet around during their golden years can bring great joy to senior citizens. From providing companionship to improving physical and mental health, owning a pet can be a great way for seniors to stay active, engaged and connected. If you are considering getting a pet for a senior loved one, be sure to choose a pet that fits their lifestyle and needs. With proper care and attention, pets can be a wonderful addition to the lives of seniors. Here are just some of the benefits to bring for senior citizens.

Companionship

As seniors age, they may experience loneliness and isolation, especially if they live alone. A pet can provide constant companionship and unconditional love. A pet can be a loyal friend who is always there to listen and provide comfort. A pet can help reduce feelings of loneliness and can help seniors feel more connected to the world around them. Pets are there when seniors wake up, and when they go to sleep. They count on them for care, and provide companionship at a time when our seniors may be feeling lonelier.

Physical Activity

Owning a pet can help seniors to be more active. Walking a dog, playing with a cat or caring for a bird or small animal can provide seniors with a reason to get up and move around. Regular exercise is important for maintaining good physical health, and having a pet can make it more enjoyable and less of a chore. Each morning they will need to get up and feed the pet, and fill its water bowl. They also will need to feed the pet at night. It helps them move more without even thinking about it.

Mental Stimulation

Pets can help provide mental stimulation for seniors. Caring for a pet requires attention, problem-solving and decision-making, which can help keep seniors' minds sharp. Even something as simple as playing with a cat or watching fish swim can be mentally stimulating and help prevent boredom. Having to feed the pet requires seniors to think about the time in their day. Even just watching the pet play can provide stimulation and lots of laughs. Studies have shown that Alzheimer's patients get mental stimulation from pets and animals. Even just watching fish in a tank provided more mental engagement for those with Alzheimers in the study.

Lower Stress Levels

Studies have shown that interacting with pets can lower stress levels and reduce anxiety. Petting a dog or cat can release feel-good hormones in the brain, such as oxytocin and serotonin, which can help seniors feel more relaxed and calm. Pets can also provide a sense of purpose and routine, which can help reduce stress levels. Having a cuddly dog, cat or other animal sit on your lap while you pet it can bring a feeling of calm, ease and happiness to everyone, including seniors.

Improved socialization

Owning a pet can also improve socialization for seniors. Walking a dog or going to the dog park can provide opportunities to meet new people and make friends. Seniors who may have difficulty leaving their home or socializing with others may find it easier to connect with others through their pets. As seniors walk their dog and pass others with dogs, the dogs often greet each other, and it gives seniors a chance to talk with their owners, or even to just comment on how cute the other person’s dog is. It opens them up to new people they may not have met before.

Here to Help

If you are looking for someone to help the seniors in your life, our caregivers at Visiting Angels Webster can help. We have trained caregivers who offer a variety of services, including companion care, personal care, fall prevention, respite care and care for seniors suffering from dementia or Alzheimers. We will tailor our care plans to your senior’s needs.

We serve seniors in Southeast Houston and the Bay Area Communities, including Brookside Village, Clear Lake Shores, Deer Park, Dickinson, El Lago, Friendswood, Houston, Kemah, League City, Pasadena, Pearland, San Leon, Seabrook, Taylor Lake Village, Texas City and Webster. We can come to your home, find out what needs you have, and develop a care plan tailored to your needs. Call us at 832-632-2273 for more information.

If you are interested in caring for senior clients in the community, visit us online to find out more about a career in home care.