When choosing where to live, there are many factors to take into consideration. While location, price, and amenities are certainly important, don’t overlook the importance of finding a home that’s pet friendly.
Pets help keep residents active and engaged. A recent survey found that nearly half of adults over 65 say their pets play a role in keeping them physically fit. In addition, almost 70 percent report that their pets make them feel less lonely.
Pet-friendly communities also offer a wide range of activities designed specifically for seniors’ interests. For instance, some facilities even provide dog walking services, allowing seniors to spend more time enjoying the outdoors with their four-legged friends.
Here are four benefits of pet-friendly living facilities:
1. Keeps Seniors Active
Since dogs need to be walked several times a day, they help keep seniors on the move & keep their bodies more agile. While many pet-friendly senior communities are prepared to lend a hand with pet care, pets are a great motivation for seniors to get a little bit of daily exercise.
2. Pets Give Seniors Purpose
A recent survey done by the University of California at San Francisco found that over half of seniors say having a pet helps them cope with loneliness and disconnection. They provide companionship and help seniors maintain their sense of purpose. In fact, owning a pet gives seniors a reason to get out of bed each day — knowing their pet needs them.
The research team surveyed nearly 200 people aged 65 and older about their experiences with pets and their impact on their daily life. Their findings showed that while most seniors had pets in the past, fewer than one-third still owned a pet today. However, those who did still reported feeling less lonely and more connected to others. When asked what it meant to live alone, respondents described being isolated, lonely, and disconnected from family and friends.
In addition to providing companionship, pets also help seniors maintain their sense of purpose. Respondents mentioned that animals helped them feel useful, productive, and important, and gave them a reason to wake up each day. One respondent noted, “I am very happy because I know my dog depends on me.” Another added, “Having a cat makes you feel like you’re doing something worthwhile.”
3. Stay Sharp
Mental stimulation is important for seniors, and keeping your mind active is key to maintaining cognitive function. A recent study found that people who engaged in mental activities such as reading, writing, playing games or puzzles, or doing crossword puzzles had better memory recall than those who didn’t.
The same goes for pets. A pet can provide a sense of purpose and meaning in life, and research suggests that having a pet can improve your mood and reduce stress levels. Pets are also great for social interaction; studies show that interacting with animals can increase empathy and decrease loneliness among older adults.
For many seniors, caring for a pet requires significant effort. However, there are ways you can take steps to ensure your aging loved ones’ brains stay healthy.
4. Socializing
Even in an assisted living community, it can become harder for seniors to forge new relationships as they age. Pets encourage seniors to get outdoors and spend time on a patio or garden. This helps them get out of their apartment, get a change of scenery, and makes them more likely to socialize. Dogs tend to attract the attention of those around them, which can be great for sparking up conversations with others.
5. Ward Off Depression
In the beginning, seniors can feel lonely in an assisted living community. Unfamiliar surroundings, new neighbors, and staff around the facility can make for a big transition. It’s important to look for ways to mitigate loneliness and depression. Pets can be so important for this. They provide a degree of companionship and familiarity that cannot be overestimated.
Choose the best community for you & your loved one
The Gardens at Oasis is proud to be an independently owned and operated community with home-grown folks who care about you and getting to know you. The Gardens is a great place to retire, relax and really thrive. Give us a call today and let us show you our vibrant and caring community!
