8 Benefits of Pet Ownership in the Elderly
It’s a known truth that owning a pet can be a rewarding experience for people of all ages. Pets provide us with companionship, love, and affection – something that is often missing in our fast-paced lives. But what about seniors? Can the elderly still enjoy the benefits of pet ownership? Absolutely!
However, some seniors may find it difficult to care for a pet on their own. That’s where home care can help! When you hire professional assistance for your senior relative in Encino, or elsewhere in California, they can help them take care of their pets and enjoy their company. Let’s see how pets can benefit the elderly in a variety of ways.
Do pets help older people live happier and longer?
Having a pet definitely helps people to feel better. In fact, one study found that pet owners over the age of 65 had a 36% lower risk of heart attack than those who didn’t own pets. This may be due to the fact that owning a pet provides a sense of purpose and companionship, which are both crucial for seniors.
In addition to reducing the risk of heart attack, pets can also help seniors live longer. One study found that senior dog owners an average of 22% longer than those who didn’t own dogs. This may be due to the fact that owning a pet gets people out and about, which is crucial for elderly individuals who often have a harder time getting around.
What are the benefits of pet ownership for the elderly?
There are many benefits of pet ownership for seniors that you should consider. It brings the following advantages:
- Companionship. Most people fondly recall moments from their childhood when they played with their first puppy or kitten. This is especially heartwarming for seniors. Besides reliving childhood memories, they get to share their time and space with a friend that won’t abandon them.
- Emotional support. While pets don’t speak and we don’t really have a way to tell on which level they “understand” what we’re talking, this unspoken emotional comfort is known to provide much-needed warmth and happiness to seniors.
- Purpose and meaning. Retirement is difficult due to a loss of a professional role. Other challenges of advanced age only add up to the burden, such as bereavement and loneliness. Having a pet can restore a sense of purpose and belonging, and keep seniors cognitively engaged.
- Pets can help get people out and about. Whether they’re walking their furry friends or taking them to special events with you, the elderly can have an additional reason to remain physically active and to socialize.
- Reduced level of stress. Studies have shown that the elderly who have owned a pet cope better with stressful situations.
- Lower blood pressure. This is an interesting point, as pet owners have on average lower blood pressure, which is a sign of better cardiovascular health.
- Better sleep. Certain pets bring a feeling of tranquility to the life of their owners. Cat purring on a sofa next to your bed or a puppy curled underneath your feet can be so soothing that you’ll have no problem falling asleep.
- Better self-esteem. Owning a pet helps seniors keep their confidence and self-esteem on high levels. They will wake up feeling happy and proud of their pet.
How can we assist seniors with pets?
If your senior relative owns a pet or wants to adopt a pet, there are some things that you can do to help make the experience easier and truly enriching. Here are a few tips:
- Assist with feeding the pet. Help them buy appropriate food and give them fresh water on a daily basis.
- Help walk and play with the pet. Keep in mind: you’re just making sure nothing does wrong while the senior is walking the pet.
- Monitor the pet’s health together. Consult with the owner to see when you should take the pet to the vet for checkups and vaccinations.
- Help the senior clean up after the pet. Try to make this task accessible to seniors, or carry it out yourself, if they have trouble walking.
- Check the safety of pet houses, aquariums, cages, litter boxes, feeders, and other pet equipment. Older people often find it very difficult to check and clean these, so they’ll definitely need an extra hand.
Where can I find reliable and pet-friendly homecare in Encino, CA?
If your elderly relative needs assistance in everyday activities, including taking care of their pets, A Better Way in Home Care is happy to help. We can connect you with the most experienced and trustworthy Caregivers in Encino and elsewhere in Los Angeles County.
Caregivers we refer are capable of helping seniors with a variety of daily tasks, from grooming, dressing, meal preparation, and helping with taking care of their pets and plants. They can provide assistance in playing a variety of brain-stimulating games and can create and follow tailored care plans to make sure your loved ones get the attention they deserve.
If you’re interested in our services, don’t hesitate to contact us today. We would be happy to discuss our services with you and answer any questions you may have.