The Healing Power of Pets in Older Age

Introduction

A pet can offer a number of therapeutic benefits, and this may be why they are considered one of the most popular companions for us humans!

Pet owners will understand that their furry friends are far more than just a pet! They become a valued member of the family who provide us with companionship, loyalty and love. Studies have shown pet owners tend to live longer happier lives.

The benefits that come with owning a pet apply to us at any age, but the benefits for those of us in older age are invaluable.

It is understandable that many people will have questions or concerns when it comes to whether they should make the commitment of having a pet for themselves or adopting one for an older parent. So lets eradicate some of those concerns.

Physical & Mental Health

Research and studies have shown that living with a pet can alleviate loneliness, isolation, and depression. They are always with you, last thing at night when you go to sleep, first thing on a morning when you wake up and they are especially happy to see you when you return home.

A pet can help reduce stress, by simply stroking a dog, cat, or other furry animal the act can lower blood pressure and help you feel calmer and less stressed quickly, also known as sensory therapy. Having a pet is also proven to help owners focus on the present and reduce worries about the past and future.

Dogs can encourage a more active lifestyle as they need exercise at least once a day which means better cardiovascular and heart health for you! Whilst keeping you active the dog walks can also help your social life by getting you out and about, meeting other dog owners and making new friends.

Daily Routine

Caring for a pet guarantees a sense of worth and responsibility, those who own a pet tend to take better care of themselves. Having a pet helps to develop and maintain a routine, not just for Bruno, it encourages owners to feed themselves regularly, complete housework and other daily tasks.

Being the sole provider for your furry friend means there is a need to get up in the morning to check on, feed and hydrate the pet and in some cases, depending on the animal, the cage or litter tray will need cleaning regularly, keeping you busy and a good distraction and sense of responsibility if you are not feeling your best.

Security & Companionship

Pets offer physical and mental security for older people especially those who live alone. A Dog can be particularly useful in the event of a fire or home intruder by alerting you or scaring away the intruder with their bark!

Research and studies have shown that living with a pet can alleviate loneliness, isolation, and depression. If you live alone, a pet will always be there with you, at night when you go to sleep, on a morning when you wake up and they are especially happy to see you when you return home.

Challenges of Owning a Pet

Owning a pet comes with benefits, as we have advised, but there are also things to consider before you do go and adopt a pet.

A pet can be physically demanding, depending on your activity level, you have to be conscious of what type of animal and breed would suit your lifestyle.

An individual with mobility issues may be unable to regularly walk a dog, and would be best suited to a pet that requires much fewer physical demands like a cat. Make sure that you are not allergic to the type of animal that you are looking to adopt as allergies can cause breathing problems, headaches and rashes. 

A pet can cost quite a bit to care for, when you take their vet bills, food and toys into consideration it does stack up. Are you able to afford the investment of a pet?

If owning a pet would be too challenging for you, there are pet therapy organisations that can visit you an hour or two a week for some time with a furry friend like Wag and Company who are based in the North East of England. Care Dogs are based in South London and pair you with one of their friendly local volunteers who has their own dog and they will visit you once a week for a dog walk or chat.

It is understandable that individuals may worry that they may not be able to care for their pet as well as they would like in later life, due to mobility decrease or health issues. CareYourWay can help with caring for a pet, it is something that can be included within a home care package with us. A home carer can offer assistance with such tasks like picking up pet food on your behalf.

In Conclusion

There are many benefits that come with pet ownership for older people along with a few challenges and considerations depending on your lifestyle.

If you do wish to adopt a pet give it careful consideration to make sure you pick the right animal for you. Whether it be a reptile, bird, fish, amphibian or a mammal!