From social connections to keeping your body active, having a pet is an amazing way to boost your quality of life and everyday enjoyment! Keep reading to discover the many health benefits of pets for seniors:
Emotional & Mental Health
Whether it’s a dog, cat, or even a fish or small furry critter, pets can provide a necessary feeling of personal connection, unconditional love, and sense of purpose, especially for those who live by themselves. Taking care of an animal will commonly include feeding, grooming, and providing exercise, and this responsibility can help bring fulfillment to each day.
In addition, simply petting an animal has been shown to release endorphins in our brains, which are natural mood boosters. Whether it’s your own pet or through a pet therapy program for seniors, pets offer amazing emotional support and companionship, decreasing stress levels and alleviating symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Physical Benefits
Pets also offer numerous physical health benefits and often require ample outdoor time. Walking every day is a great way to improve and sustain your cardiovascular health, mobility range, and muscle strength — Having a companion while you jog or stroll is a great motivator to get up and move!
Social Health
Another of the many benefits of pets for seniors are the social opportunities they provide. From pet-related activities like dog parks and training classes to volunteering at pet therapy programs or casual conversation starters while on a walk, pets are an amazing way to increase your social circle and create opportunities for new connections and friends.
Routine & Structure
One of the most welcome benefits of retirement is the freedom and flexibility of free time. However, it’s important to maintain a daily routine to prevent feelings of boredom or isolation. Pets are a perfect way for seniors to develop and maintain a daily schedule. From having to feed your four-legged friend in the morning to walks throughout the day and regular maintenance, pets can provide some needed structure to life while also reminding you to take care of yourself, giving your own health the same care and attention that you give to them.
Choosing the Right Pet for You
To get the most benefit from your new furry (or scaled!) friend, it’s important to choose the right type of pet for you and your lifestyle. Consider how much time or energy you have to devote to your new friend. Can you take care of an animal that needs walks every day? How about changing a litter box? If you are not ready to adopt a pet, attending a pet therapy event is a great way to benefit from many aspects of animals, without needing to take care of them yourself.
Pet-Friendly Living at Moldaw
Residents at Moldaw in Palo Alto, CA, enjoy a pet-friendly campus including a welcoming dog park and easy access to nearby veterinarians. Take a look at our beautiful residential floor plans, featuring plenty of room for Fido and Fluffy to make themselves at home!
Get to know our welcoming senior living community in sunny central California! Contact us to learn more and schedule a personal tour today.
