Pets play a crucial role in the lives of many people. Aside from dogs that you can train to detect seizures, other pets are also useful in speech and occupational therapy, and physical rehabilitation. Owning a pet is also beneficial for an elderly, as this can help him maintain his youthful vigor while also keeping both his body and mind active.
Here are just some ways through which owning a pet can help improve the lives of seniors:
- Promotes physical activity – Pets need exercise, that’s a known fact. This especially holds true if you own active dogs. If you are a senior who owns a pet then you’ll notice a significant increase in your physical activities, as you need to let your pet exercise often. This is actually good for your health. It helps lower your blood pressure and pulse rate. Pets have calming effects plus owning one lets you engage in physical activities that can improve not only your blood circulation but also your overall health.
- Relieves mental conditions – Those with Alzheimer’s and dementia can also benefit from having a pet around. Pets can relieve stress and calm down dementia patients who often get agitated. Interacting with their pets also stimulates the appetite of seniors who don’t eat regularly because of the mentioned conditions.
- Promotes companionship – As you get older, loneliness may be one of your unwelcome companions. Leaving it undealt with may result to not only depression, but also to other physical problems. Your pet can help you in this case as they can tailor their personality and schedule to fit yours.
Unlike people, they will never be off-duty or unavailable. You can even bring small pets with you when traveling. This is a huge help if you want to have a wonderful companion who can help you fight loneliness.
- Lessens stress – Older people who are living with pets show lower levels of stress than those who don’t have one. It could be because of the regular walks or exercise that they need to do with their pets. With pets who can give them company, they can easily share what they feel, thereby lowering their stress levels.
- Helps you discover new interests – Taking care of a pet as you get older can add meaning to your life as this will also allow you to discover new yet exciting activities and interests. It could be cleaning the park close to your home where you often walk your dog. Whatever it is, your new interests will motivate you to further enjoy life.
Aside from the benefits mentioned above, seniors with pets also take care of themselves better than those who don’t have one. Pets can provide them with a kind of entertainment and companionship that can further improve the quality of their lives. This is the main reason why a lot of therapists and doctors recommend taking care of a pet to an elderly who needs to exercise regularly and undergo therapy.
