Having a pet companion can be very good for your mental and physical health. Here are the top 5 companion pets for seniors especially appropriate for those seniors who belong to the retired and widowed communities!
People are retiring and widowed and seeking new companions. because they knew how important a good dog was; when they lose their health or a good friendship in life.
According to a study that was published in the International Journal of Community Wellbeing, seniors said that having pets is an important part of living. Despite the fact that pets unquestionably have a significant impact on the lives of their owners, research reveals that companion animals have significant positive effects on a person’s health as they age.
Why should seniors have pets? Pros of Top 5 companion pets for seniors
Pets are a big help in overcoming loneliness for seniors, especially those who have lost a spouse or live alone. Additionally, dogs give elderly people a sense of safety and security. Other advantages for seniors who live with pets include:
- A person’s psychological well-being can be maintained by having a pet. Caring for pets gives one a sense of purpose.
- Spending time with pets helps seniors find peace in the now rather than dwelling on the past or worrying about the future.
- Help relieve stress in the mind
- Keeping a pet can lower blood pressure, cholesterol levels, stress, and anxiety, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
- Day-to-day strolls with canines increment a senior’s versatility.
- It keeps people’s minds sharp
- Dog walks around the neighborhood provide an opportunity for social interaction.
What animals do the elderly like?
Each senior is different with regard to what is wanted in a creature sidekick. Smaller dogs are preferred by retired people who enjoy traveling. While some older adults prefer a furry companion to curl up on their laps, others prefer companionship while walking. Numerous seniors like to avoid more youthful pets like young doggies and cats which call for greater investment and consideration. Seniors with mobility issues are also at risk from lively kittens and puppies. Because they easily adapt to a quieter lifestyle, older animals are typically the pet of choice for retirees. Birds and fish are frequently the pets of choice for seniors who suffer from allergies.
See Also: The Most Popular Animals Owned As Pets In The US
What is the best pet for an elderly person?
A senior’s health requirements, mobility, financial concerns, and personality all need to be taken into consideration before bringing an animal companion home, according to A Place for Mom experts. A commitment from a friend or family member to assist with the pet’s care or assume complete responsibility in the event of an emergency is another important part of the support system.
Top 5 companion pets for seniors
Dogs
Dogs of a smaller size make excellent companions for elderly people. They are calm, have basic obedience training, are housebroken, and are trained to walk quietly on a leash. Older dogs enjoy going on walks and curling up with their owners on the couch to watch TV or read a book. More established dogs are an extraordinary choice for seniors, particularly individuals who invest a great deal of energy at home.
See Also: Domestic Pet Dog
Cats
Cats are content to remain inside and enjoy curling up in a warm lap for long periods of time. The majority of adult cats, as stated by American Humane, require no more than 20 to 30 minutes of playtime each day. A casting rod or laser bar toy can be utilized to engage a kitty, and that should be possible from the solace of a seat for seniors with diminished portability.
See Also: Cat Interactive Companion Pet
Birds: Parakeets
Seniors love to keep birds, especially parakeets. They require insignificant tidy up and support while giving great friendship. In retirement communities where cats and dogs are prohibited, they are an excellent choice. Although parakeets are vocal, they do not scream or screech like larger parrot species do. They are affectionate, intelligent birds who enjoy interacting with humans.
Rabbits
According to Aviva In-Home Care specialists, offer numerous advantages to elderly people. They are a great option for a retirement community because they are small and quiet. Rabbits are social animals who enjoy being petted by their owner. They don’t need to go outside because they can be taught to use a litter box. Additionally, they require only fresh water, daily feedings, and a clean litter box to be taken care of. They also like to be brushed, which is a great way for seniors to unwind and get to know their fluffy friends.
Ferrets
Ferrets have been domesticated for more than two thousand years. Even though they appear to be small, simple-to-care-for-pocket pets, they are a big responsibility and frequently require just as much care as a cat or dog, if not more! They are highly intelligent and social pets.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are wonderful programs all over the United States that pair elderly people with elderly dogs and cats in need of loving homes. Pets for the Elderly, a non-profit organization, matches senior citizens and pets with 57 shelters in 35 states. The organization covers the adoption fee and provides financial assistance for pet food and veterinary costs for adopters over 60. Smaller animals in need of homes for seniors. A senior can save a life and make a valuable friend by adopting a pet.