How Having A Pet Is Important For The Elderly

Pets are great for people of any age. They provide unconditional love and companionship that makes them part of the family. Without any of the drama!

As much as a pet needs us for their survival, we may need them even more. Especially as we age and families move on and friends become scarce. A pet is that companion that can always be counted on. 

There are many benefits that we will go into but also keep in mind the challenges. An elederly person needs to have the extra money it costs to keep a pet, not to mention that some care homes don’t accept pets. 

With that said, let’s take a look at some of the benefits of owning a pet in your twilight years.

Pain relief

Much of our physical pain can be relieved through lowering our cortisol which is mainly caused by stress. When you are stressed the body has trouble fighting pain, but when we are calm and relaxed, our cortisol levels are lower so we don’t have as much pain.

Having a pet reduces stress so you end up with a natural pain reliever. In fact, petting a dog can release the oxytocin hormone which boosts feelings of happiness.

Stay social

Dogs need to be taken out for walks or allowed out to run around. This is a chance for elderly people to get out of the house and end up interacting with other dog owners. This helps to beat away isolation which generally leads to aging much faster and ending up with health problems. 

If they end up needing to go to a care facility, look for one that allows for pets so they can be even more social. Make sure to talk to experts like Thrive Senior Living to find the right type of facility.

Stay active

Senior citizens need to be out moving around to keep their muscles and bones in good working order. It helps with balance to avoid falls, which accounts for many elderly people losing their health quickly when they break a hip or other joints.

People with pets are more active in general as they have to be out taking the dog for a walk. 2.5 hours of brisk walking is recommended to keep seniors in good physical health and that roughly equals the amount of time that would be spent walking a dog each week.

Having a purpose

When seniors are retired and there are no kids to take care of, many feel like they have no purpose. Without a purpose, life can turn into drudgery.

A pet gives the elderly someone to take care of. When a pet needs an owner to take care of them, then that gives the senior a purpose. They have to be on a routine, too which helps to keep them focused.

The feeling is also mutual. A pet will oftentimes care for their owner while they themselves are being cared for.