Older people need to spend time with someone, and while their children are often busy elsewhere or away from home for work purposes, they can get a pet.
Pets provide companionship that builds up over the years due to constant contact.
There’s also research that shows pets stimulate neural pathways in humans, keeping us mentally healthy as we age!
The Benefits of Pet Ownership for Seniors
Studies have shown that having a pet decreases stress and increases socialization. Pets are one of the best ways to reduce our anxiety because they live in the “present moment” as opposed to worrying about tomorrow or next week; this can be an incredibly stressful thing for older people. With all these benefits it is not surprising why pets provide intangibles that make them so satisfying!
Linda Anderson, founder of the Angel Animals Network in Minneapolis with her husband Allen spread awareness about pet ownership and its benefits. “We have heard from older owners that their lives were incredibly barren without pets’ companionship,” said Linda.
Pets can also have an astounding effect on symptoms of depression and feelings of loneliness according to their study after she realized how great animal lovers are when they work together towards one goal: saving animals!
Marjorie and Richard Douse found a new love in their golden retriever puppy, Bonnie. When they retired from work after 40 years of marriage, the couple knew it was time for them to adopt an animal companion. They got her as soon as she could be trusted at home alone during the day – when she was just six weeks old! Now that Marjorie has aged some more than Rich and is no longer able to walk outside all by herself without fear of falling or injury, Bonnie helps with physical therapy exercises!
Marjorie remembers how fortunate they were to have adopted such an energetic pup who grew up well-behaved to provide companionship.
How to Find the Right Pet for a Senior
Some people only take looks into account when adopting, but you should also carefully consider what your needs are in terms of personality, size, age, maintenance requirements and energy levels. There is one instance where the breed can be important- if you need a hypoallergenic dog or one that doesn’t require intensive grooming then it’s best to look for breeds with those qualities before anything else.
Senior citizens who cannot afford to take care of a pet in their homes are often allowed to volunteer and help animals find loving new families. These opportunities provide senior volunteers with some much-needed social interaction while also giving them an important role within society, as they play such a vital part in helping these precious animals get adopted into safe and caring environments.
Making a Decision
It’s no exaggeration that a pet can provide unconditional love and improve the quality of life for senior citizens. However, it is important to consider what kind of commitment this will entail—both on behalf of your elderly loved one as well as their new furry companion!
