Aging can be very lonely and stressful, especially for seniors who live alone. If you’re thinking about getting a pet for your elderly mother or father, consider how pet ownership can benefit seniors. Then, carefully consider your choice before picking out a furry companion for your elderly parent.
Don’t forget—our nurses and home care staff can provide light pet care, including feeding!
Benefits of Pet Ownership for Seniors
Interacting with animals is beneficial for the elderly. Owning a pet can help seniors in the following ways:
- Reduce stress and lower blood pressure: There’s something soothing about petting a soft animal, one that wants nothing more than to snuggle.
- Provide mental stimulation: Getting a new dog may inspire your parent to read up on the breed. Learning new things at this age is very important to remain mentally sharp.
- Ease loneliness: A pet is a companion, someone to talk to and care for. This could be exactly what a senior needs to ease feelings of loneliness.
- Lessen depression: Elderly people know the end of their life is near. Health problems may leave them in pain most of the day and prevent them from going out. A furry companion distracts the elderly from these problems so they don’t dwell on loss or aging. It also provides them with something that depends on them for love and care, which can help lessen depression as well.
What to Consider When Purchasing a Pet for Your Elderly Parent
This shouldn’t be a surprise decision you make without consulting your parent first. Ask about the possibility of owning a pet with these questions:
- Are you interested in having a pet? If your parent doesn’t like change, getting a pet might not be the best idea. You should also know whether your parent has owned pets in the past. It’s best to reserve pet ownership at this age for people who have experience with animals.
- Can you pay for the cost of owning a pet? Pets need food, toys and medical care. Come to an understanding about who will pay what and whether the cost is feasible.
- What kind of pet do you think is best? Take your parent’s disabilities into account. For someone who can still get around, owning an active dog could be a great way to get walking and interacting with others. If your parent is more physically challenged, a more independent cat or bird might be preferable.
- Would a therapy dog be beneficial? An impairment or disability may qualify your parent for an assistance or therapy dog.
- What age is best? A kitten or puppy is probably not a wise choice because they require more care. Consider finding a calm, middle-aged dog or cat at an animal shelter that could benefit from having a new home with an elderly owner who can offer plenty of pampering and attention.
- What about the pet’s health? Before you purchase an animal, have it examined by a vet who can offer a clean bill of health. The last thing you need is to introduce a disease-ridden pet to your elderly parent’s home.
For more information about ways to make life great for your elderly parents, please call Advanced Nursing & Home Support at 240-283-4984 or contact us online.
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