For seniors in Shelby, NC, finding an assisted living community that welcomes pets can make all the difference when transitioning to a new chapter of life. After all, pets provide companionship, emotional support, and a daily sense of purpose, which are all qualities that become even more vital as we age.
Luckily, more assisted living communities in and around Shelby are recognizing the benefits of pet ownership, and they’re now adapting their policies to welcome four-legged family members. This means that you can be more discerning when searching for a new home.
This article will explore pet-friendly assisted living and how pets contribute to senior wellness.
How Pet-Friendly Assisted Living Makes a Difference
Pets aren’t just companions; they’re a part of the family. For older adults, having a pet close by can offer comfort, routine, and joy, especially if they’re adjusting to a new living environment.
Research from the Human-Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) shows that human-animal interactions are great for healthy aging. The benefits show that pets can:
- Reduce stress
- Combat loneliness
- Boost mood
- Lower blood pressure
- Reduce anxiety
- Support cardiovascular health
- Encourage physical activity
- Help with mental alertness
- Serve as social bridges
- Offer emotional grounding and comfort
Emotional support pets for seniors can make transitions and major changes in life much easier, too. This is thanks to their familiar presence, which is comforting.
As you can see, aging with animals while in a senior living community can result in many benefits.
Finding Pet-Friendly Assisted Living Communities in Shelby
While policies can vary, several assisted living communities in Shelby are becoming more accommodating to pets. From small dogs and cats to birds or other animals, many allow you to bring your companions, with guidelines in place for safety and care.
You should expect the community to have requirements regarding things like:
- Pet sizes
- Breeds
- Vaccination records
- Pet deposit fees
- Number of animals per resident
If you’re interested in a community, you should visit it in person and ask key questions. Inquire about:
- Pet care services
- Emergency protocols
- Staff support
Do note that even if you don’t have a pet of your own, it’s common for senior living communities to have therapy animal visits. These can boost morale and offer emotional support.
The Role of Pets in Memory Care
Many memory care programs in Shelby are embracing the therapeutic potential of animals for residents who have Alzheimer’s or dementia. This is because pets can provide a soothing routine for seniors facing cognitive challenges. The familiarity of a pet’s presence can ease anxiety and reduce confusion.
It’s also been shown that structured visits with therapy animals improve mood, increase engagement, and reduce behavioral symptoms (such as wandering or agitation).
Ultimately, a long-time pet can offer a vital emotional connection, even if an older adult’s memory is fading. As a result, they’ll get a sense of continuity in daily life.
Tips for Moving to Assisted Living With a Pet
Moving with a pet to an assisted living community in Shelby won’t be easy. Both seniors and pets need time to adjust to a new environment, so some planning can make the transition easier.
To start, ask the right questions. They should be about:
- Pet policies
- Outdoor access
- Designated pet areas
- Available support services
If possible, you should also visit the community with your pet beforehand to help them get comfortable. Repeat visits afterward can be beneficial too, as it’ll reduce stress. Once you move, bring familiar items to help make them feel at home quicker.
Do note that local pet services in Cleveland County may offer discounts or home visits for pet owners. In addition, you may be able to find partnerships with local pet services, such as dog walkers, groomers, or veterinary clinics. So just ask around to see what’s available.
Community Resources for Senior Pet Owners in Shelby
The great thing about Shelby and Cleveland County is that there’s a growing number of resources to support assisted living with pets. For example, there are local shelters that occasionally offer low-cost spay/neuter services, as well as vaccinations and pet food assistance.
There are also veterinary clinics that may provide geriatric pet wellness programs that are tailored to the needs of older animals. Or if you need trained therapy dogs, you can refer to groups such as Pet Partners and Alliance of Therapy Dogs. They often connect senior living communities with quality animals.
In addition, community centers and aging support groups in Shelby often host workshops or provide information on maintaining pet ownership as a senior. These can be invaluable in your journey with your new family member.
Pets to Consider for Older Adults in Senior Living Communities
The typical pets to consider are cats and dogs. There’s a reason why 68 million American households own dogs and 49 million own cats. They both provide fantastic companionship and have many breeds to choose from. For an easier experience, choose short-haired cats and small dog breeds.
Other animals that are good for older adults are small animals and fish. All of these are relatively small, have defined enclosures, and make little to no noise. This means that clean-up and maintenance are simple, and you won’t have to worry about them bothering your neighbors.
It’s up to you to determine what your personal limitations and preferences are for living with an animal companion.
Choose Pet-Friendly Assisted Living
If you’d like to keep your beloved companion by your side as you open this new chapter in your life, then you must look for pet-friendly assisted living. While it may be a challenging move, it’s worth it when you can bring your best friend along.
Plus, you can make the transition much easier if you research and plan ahead of time. If you choose the right cat or dog-friendly senior communities, then it can completely transform the aging experience. You’ll be able to embrace this stage of life with dignity and comfort.
TerraBella Shelby offers a proprietary memory care program that’s won awards. Contact us today if you’d like more information about senior living in Shelby, NC.
