We may find ourselves feeling lonely as we progress into our golden years. Since there are fewer people in the senior age group, it may be harder to find companionship. The younger generation is often too busy with work and we cannot expect them to devote their time to us. This is why having pets around is a great way for seniors to receive love and get the emotional support that they need. Besides that, our pets can also improve our overall physical and mental health.
On the other hand, as we age, we need to consider how we can continue to take care of our pets. Do you know that there is pet care assistance for senior citizens? You’ll be glad to know that with pet care assistance, our pets can continue living with us even when we cannot fully care for them on our own.
Specific Ways Pets Can Help Seniors
Beyond having a friend by one’s side, taking care of a pet gives seniors meaning to their lives. This is important as seniors need to feel that they are contributing to something in order to have the motivation to get through the day. Furthermore, trained pets can provide seniors with a sense of safety as they are there to help if anything goes amiss.
With pets by their side, seniors are typically found to have a stronger immune system, experience less melancholy and tension, while also becoming more physically active. Research has also shown that their blood pressure has dropped to a healthier level!
Finding the Right Kind of Pet
Seeing how pets are beneficial to seniors, it is essential to learn how to find the right kind of pet for yourself. Different pets require different levels of care and attention. For instance, dogs tend to require more attention from their owners than cats. When you choose a pet, you’ll need to think about your physical condition and know what you are looking for in a pet. Here are some factors to consider:
- If you have one or more disabilities, it is recommended to get a pet that is less physically demanding on the owner. For example, a smaller animal like a guinea pig is easier to take care of than a dog.
- Seniors with mental health issues or impaired hearing can consider getting a professionally trained therapy pet to better take care of their specific needs.
- The age of the pet is also a crucial factor. Generally, a young pet tends to be more energetic, while an older pet may be burdened with its own sickness and require more tending to.
- The cost of the pet and its maintenance fees are also important to consider. Keeping a pet can be expensive, depending on its species and breed. Some pets are more prone to falling sick; others require more expenditure on grooming. Make sure to choose the ones within your budget.
Ways to Care for Your Pet
It is better to prepare for the pet’s arrival beforehand to ensure a smooth transition. For starters, you can invest in water dispensers and automatic feeders, so the feeding process becomes a breeze. You can also choose a vet who can come to your house instead of the other way round for greater convenience. Feel free to contact your friends or relatives for help if you need a hand in taking care of the pet. Finally, if you are physically unable to take care of the pet, you can consider hiring a professional to take charge of its care.
Pet Options at TerraBella Windsor Lake
At TerraBella Windsor Lake, pets are welcome in our active independent living community. Our senior living programs offer seniors a flexible lifestyle with daily housekeeping and meals all taken care of. If you are thinking of joining our vibrant senior living community, you can rest easy knowing that you do not have to part with your little pets or furry companions. To learn more about caring for pets on our grounds, get in touch with us today!
