Owning a pet can reduce stress and release dopamine, serotonin, and other chemicals that promote happiness. Older adults can benefit significantly from pet ownership, especially those living alone.
Below are the most common benefits for seniors who own a pet.
Prevent Social Isolation
Seniors often feel isolated from their family and friends. They might not have a partner or can’t travel to visit distant relatives. Some can’t drive or spend time with friends because of a physical disability.
A pet can give older adults the social interaction they crave. Pet owners have a reason to get out of bed in the morning, go for walks, and talk to people in the neighborhood. Fostering new relationships is also possible by bringing the animal to a pet store, nature trail, or dog park.
Participate in Old Routines and Responsibilities
Many seniors miss the role they had in their kids’ lives. They used to provide and care for others. Aging takes away those parental responsibilities.
However, having a pet gives older adults a sense of purpose. Caring for a dog, cat, or another animal provides structure in their daily life. They must follow a schedule to bathe, walk, feed, groom, and play with their pet.
Improve Mental Health
Older adults can suffer from depression, anxiety, and other mental illnesses. Owning a pet is beneficial to mental health. The simple act of petting an animal releases dopamine and serotonin. It can increase happiness and relieve various stressors.
How Seniors Can Interact with Animals
One of many ways older adults can interact with animals is by buying or adopting a pet. Opportunities are available to get involved with pets outside of ownership, such as:
- Family pets – Older adults can interact with animals without the responsibility of caring for them. Family members might own pets they can bring to the senior’s home for visits.
- Pet therapy – Pet therapy services allow volunteers to go to a senior’s home, hospital, or assisted living facility with a trained animal. During scheduled sessions, older adults can cuddle, play with, and train the animal.
- Service dogs – Certified service dogs are well-trained to assist older adults with basic tasks. Seniors can live more independently with a dog that can press the open button on wheelchair-accessible doors, turn lights on and off, and retrieve items around the home. Service dogs also help during emergencies by alerting seniors to dangers or calming them during an anxiety attack or other medical issue.
- Volunteer – Pet ownership isn’t possible for everyone. However, reaping the benefits can occur in other ways. Older adults can spend their time volunteering at a local animal shelter. It gets them out of the house and involved in the community.
Learn More About Pet Ownership
Owning a pet can boost mood, help manage stress, and foster a more physically active life. Although not suitable for all seniors, pet ownership offers a range of benefits for many. Consider whether getting a pet can meet your needs as you age.
Contact an experienced Brandon elder lawyer today at (813) 438-8503 for more information. We can assist you in planning for the future and establishing a guardian to care for your pet upon your incapacitation or death.