Can Pets Have a Healing Effect on Seniors?
As they sink deeper into old age, our parents may feel increasingly lonely and depressed, especially if they live alone. Some seniors will complain about being abandoned and left out, some will act cranky and moody when you are around and others will simply choose to keep to themselves.
Whatever the case may be, you must be looking for a way to help out when you’re away. You may consider hiring a professional caregiver or asking a neighbor or friend to check up on your aging loved one. You may also pursue another avenue altogether: pet ownership.
We often hear about the therapeutic effect of pets, especially dogs and cats, on human health. But do they truly have the healing power that is attributed to them and can they really benefit seniors and the elderly? Read on to find out more about what professional providers of home care in Westwood and other areas of Westside LA have to say.
What are the positive health effects of pets?
Regardless of a person’s age, being around pets can be immensely beneficial. Quality time with pets may translate directly into lower blood pressure which automatically decreases the risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke, and better overall health.
Aging people with pets, dogs in particular, are typically more active and an increased level of physical activity is correlated with better health. Adopting a pet can even make an aging person’s process of recovery faster and more effective.
Pets can also help owners feel less lonely and adopt a more optimistic outlook on life. Other mental health benefits of pet ownership include:
- Rewarding mental stimulation
- Decreased sense of isolation and loneliness
- Reduced risk of confrontations and resistance to care
- An increased sense of purpose
- More laughter and better quality of life
- Increased social connections, especially with other pet owners
Are there risks associated with pet ownership?
There are some risks associated with pet ownership, although they can be successfully managed, mitigated or avoided altogether:
- Personality mismatch: Adopting a pet seems straightforward, but sometimes, it is not. It is especially difficult for seniors who are used to a certain way of life to change their ways in order to match the needs and the personality of a hyperactive dog who barks incessantly or a hostile cat that keeps running away to wander around the neighborhood. For some seniors, a bird, fish or a tortoise may be a better choice and a better match for their lifestyle and personality.
- Risk of injury: Seniors and the elderly are at high risk of falls, and this is a risk that pets could make worse.
- Risk of developing allergies: Pet ownership is not recommended to aging people prone to allergies. What’s more, the person may not be aware that they are allergic to pet dander until they start sharing their personal living space with one.
- Unforeseen care needs and costs: Vet bills can be steep and looking after a pet can be more demanding than it may seem at first, especially when frail senior pets are concerned.
- Possibility of restricted living arrangements: For people who live in a small, confined space such as a condo, getting a pet can be highly inconvenient, especially if they have to take care of their own cleaning.
- Grief over loss: For many people who live alone with pets, these animals become the most important companions. Loss of a beloved companion can result in immense distress and grief which could have a devastating effect on a person’s wellbeing.
An outstanding standard of home care in Westwood and nearby areas
Looking out for seniors and their well-being is what we do best. A Better Way in Home Care has been around for over two decades and we are a valuable resource for aging individuals and their families looking for a compassionate and patient caregiver to help out. Do not hesitate to contact us and learn more about your options!