by Pam Ness
An instant way to add some tender loving care into a senior’s life is exposure to a furry friend… or even a pal with wings or scales or fins! Studies on pets for seniors show that spending time with animals has both emotional and physical benefits.
Interaction with a gentle and friendly pet can generate an instant rush of endorphins, which provides a feeling of calmness and positivity. Spending time with a pet can lower blood pressure, diminish sensations of pain, and trigger a relaxation response so powerful that it can sometimes lead to a reduction in the amount of medication needed.
Caring for a pet provides a feeling of companionship, which reduces feelings of loneliness and isolation, and can be a natural antidote to feelings of anxiety and depression. Taking care of a pet can give new meaning to a person’s life, providing them with an active role as a caretaker. This has the positive benefit of turning the focus off of oneself, and can be a distraction from everyday difficulties. A furry companion not only provides another soul to talk to, but can sit with someone while watching the news, or be a good listener for someone to read the newspaper aloud to! Taking care of the feeding, grooming, and pottying of a pet provides a motivation to move, and is a great source of exercise. For those who live alone, and crave the touch of another, being able to physically stroke or snuggle a pet can be invaluable.
If a furry pet is not possible, due to housing restrictions, allergies, or upkeep, there are other options. A small bird in a cage or a collection of fish in an aquarium can provide the same benefit of someone to care for, and to be entertained by. Even weekly visits with the pet of a family member or friend can be a nourishing experience.
When selecting a pet, a wonderful choice is often rescuing a “senior” animal from a shelter. Dogs and cats ages 8 and up are often overlooked and in need of loving homes. These pets are much lower maintenance than adopting a puppy or kitten, who often require lots of training and have high energy levels and need lots of exercise. Older animals are usually more sedentary, happy to spend most of the day resting and napping, and are less likely to get into mischief. Giving a loving home to these “senior” treasures is a gift to both parties!