Having dogs or cats provides seniors with a number of benefits that can boost their physical, mental, and emotional health. If your elderly loved one is considering becoming a pet owner, this list of important advantages may make his or her decision easier.
Physical Activity
Dogs and cats need regular care that requires seniors to be more active on a daily basis. Dogs need to go for walks to get enough exercise and relieve themselves. While cats don’t need to be taken for walks, senior cat owners need to perform routine tasks that require them to be up and about, such as emptying and cleaning litter boxes. This increased physical activity can help seniors keep their muscles and joints strong and flexible, which can ease stiffness and soreness associated with arthritis and other conditions.
Mood Enhancement
Having a dog or cat around the home can provide a significant emotional boost. Petting and playing with a dog or cat offers seniors the chance to enjoy companionship they might not otherwise have. These interactions and the affection dogs and cats offer can lower the risk of depression and enhance overall quality of life.
Owning a pet is just one of the many ways seniors can enjoy socialization and prevent isolation. For families living in Edmonton, respite care can be a wonderful solution when their aging loved ones need companionship and socialization a few hours a week or just need minor assistance with daily household tasks. At Home Care Assistance, we thrive on helping seniors maintain their independence while living in the comfort of home.
Stress Relief
Seniors who are under stress on a regular basis have a higher risk of developing health issues like depression and heart problems, but having a dog or cat around to spend time with can serve as an effective form of stress relief. Being able to sit and pet a dog or cat can ease symptoms of stress and anxiety, which can help your loved one stay physically and emotionally healthy.
Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional elderly home care. Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life.
Cognitive Stimulation
Some seniors are at risk of developing dementia, but having a dog or cat around can delay cognitive decline. Taking care of the responsibilities involved with owning a cat or dog, such as feeding and grooming, can give your loved one a sense of purpose and a chance to keep his or her mind sharp.
Although owning a pet provides a variety of benefits, some seniors have serious medical issues that prohibit them from being able to care for companion animals. If your senior loved one needs help managing an illness or assistance with daily tasks, make sure you choose a top-rated provider of in-home care. Edmonton Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life in the golden years. From the mentally stimulating activities in our Cognitive Therapeutics Method to our friendly Care Managers who are available to answer your questions 24 hours a day, we offer a wide array of high-quality at-home care services. To learn more about our highly trained caregivers, call us at (780) 490-7337.