Having the option to bring your pet to a senior living community is often a major deciding factor. Pets offer a host of mental and physical health benefits to their owners, and many senior living communities, like StoryPoint, are pet-friendly.
Here’s a breakdown of three health benefits your furry friends provide.
Animals Are Beneficial For Emotional Support
Pets make great companions. For seniors who may spend large amounts of time alone, pets are trustworthy comrades who can ease the burdens that come with loneliness.
When moving into a senior living community, pets often provide a sense of familiarity. It can take time to adjust to a community and form connections with residents and employees, and having a pet waiting for you in your apartment can help support some of the emotions you may be experiencing during this transition.
Tip: People love animals, and your pet could help start conversations with fellow residents (and likely make you the most popular neighbor on the block!).
Having a pet to play with can also reduce cortisol levels, which is a stress-related hormone. As you transition to a new senior living community, stress levels may be higher than normal, and having a pet by your side could be just the stress reliever you need.
Pets Increase Mobility And Keep You Going
Some pets are more active than others and can help their owners get more active, too. For seniors who have dogs, for example, regular walks will help both human and canine continue to move their bodies and get out in the fresh air.
The health benefits of physical activity aren’t a mystery. From improvements in cardiovascular health to supporting a healthy weight, increasing mood and encouraging an independent lifestyle, seniors who are regularly active don’t just live longer on average — these extended years are healthier, too.
Your Furry Friend Can Add A Sense Of Purpose
As we age, the number of responsibilities we have lessens. We retire, our children grow up and start families of their own, and we have greater support to handle everyday tasks. Having a pet that relies on you can boost morale and give you more responsibility throughout the day.
Pets also help to add daily structure. They’re often on a consistent feeding schedule, for example, which can help seniors manage and keep day-to-day routines.
What To Consider When Choosing A Pet
If you are thinking about getting a new pet, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Type of pet: A bird or an older cat may be a better choice than an active puppy.
- Experience: Have you ever owned a pet? And are you prepared to keep up with the high energy of a kitten or a puppy?
- Place of residence: While all of our StoryPoint Group communities allow pets, not all senior living communities do. Make sure pets are allowed and that you have ample time and resources to care for your pet.
Related: The Pets Of StoryPoint
Interested In Senior Living?
As you embark on your journey to find the right pet-friendly senior living community for you or a loved one, start by finding a StoryPoint community near you. Our community specialists can help answer any questions you may have about our pet policy. We are excited to meet you and your furry friends.
