It was not that long ago that seniors
moving into assisted
living facilities had to leave behind an important
companion, their pet. Today however, more
and more retirement communities are recognizing the benefits of pets to the
elderly, and many such as MorningStar of Beaverton, allow residents to bring
their pets with them.
There has been a lot of research that validates
the benefits of pets in seniors’ lives.
In fact, A Place for Mom website reports on a study that shows, “just 15
minutes bonding with an animal sets off a chemical chain reaction in the brain,
lowering levels of the fight-or-flight hormone cortisol and increasing
production of the feel-good hormone serotonin. The result: heart rate, blood
pressure and stress levels immediately drop.”
They go on to say that interactions between pets and humans can “lower
cholesterol levels, fight depression and may even help protect against heart
disease and stroke.”
Another reason pets can be good for
the elderly is that animals live in the here and now and do not think about
tomorrow, which for some seniors, can be worrisome. In addition animals offer unconditional love,
emotional support and affection. This is
one reason why pet therapy programs are used in convalescent homes, hospitals,
mental health centers and children’s homes.
Many people participating in such programs experience an improvement in
appetite as well as “more social interaction and tactile and cognitive
stimulation after interactions with pets.”
There is even research that indicates
pet therapy is beneficial for those suffering from dementia
diseases such as Sundowners Syndrome and Alzheimer’s. The animal’s complete acceptance and
non-verbal communication has proven to be soothing for patients.
Please contact us to learn more about MorningStar
Assisted Living & Memory Care of Beaverton.
With beautifully
appointed spaces and resort-style
amenities, we are confident you will be impressed.
MorningStar of Beaverton proudly provides the
very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to
serve, to invest.” With a foundation built on honoring God, valuing all seniors
and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve, we create a true home for
residents amid a beautiful setting. Please contact us to discover why we are a
step above ordinary assisted living facilities.
Sources: aplaceformom.com/senior-care-resources/articles/pet-friendly-assisted-living
agingcare.com/Articles/benefits-of-elderly-owning-pets-113294.htm
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