Do You Have a Pet? If not, You May Benefit from Getting One

 

Several studies over the last couple of decades have provided evidence suggesting pet ownership offers a range of health benefits for seniors. One of the most consistent findings is the fact that owning and caring for a pet may help seniors feel less lonesome, and with almost 1/3 of all seniors saying they are lonely, this is a good thing. In one study of pet owners ages 50 to 80: “88% said their pets help them enjoy life; 86% said their pets make them feel loved; and 79% said their pets help reduce stress.”

In addition to a pet’s unconditionally love, caring for the animal provides an older person with a sense of purpose as their pet needs to be feed and cared for daily. For example, a dog encourages seniors to get outside and exercise both themselves and the animal. Studies show pets can help improve seniors’ cardiovascular health and their mental and emotional health. Other studies have shown benefits such as improved mobility, a longer life span, pain relief and a better heart attack recovery.

While a pet can be a loving companion, it is important to pick one suited to the person’s physical health and their budget as vet bills can be costly. Cats and dogs make loyal friends but you may enjoy putting together and caring for an aquarium of exotic fish or raising songbirds. Whatever the choice, a pet is sure to bring a smile to the person’s face and help to keep them engaged on a daily basis.

At MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care of Beaverton, we understand that your pet is an important part of your family and you would not wish to move somewhere that he or she was not welcome. If you decide to choose our beautiful senior living community for your new home, no worries – we are pet friendly! Please contact us to learn more about our amenities, care services, availability and pricing.

MorningStar of Beaverton proudly provides the very best in senior living with our unique mission statement of “to honor, to serve, to invest.” Our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing all seniors and selecting staff with a felt calling to serve. Please visit our website to discover why MorningStar is a step above an ordinary assisted living facility.

Source: aplaceformom.com/resources/pets-for-seniors