According to the American Veterinary Association, more than 65% of U.S. households headed by someone over 65 own one or more pets.
“Money can buy you a fine dog, but only love can make him wag his tail.” – Kinky Friedman, author, singer, humorist and pet lover.
Why Do We Love Our Pets?
This month, as our thoughts turn toward Valentine’s Day and the cherished people in our lives, let’s also reflect on our deep affection for our four-legged friends—or fish, spiders, snakes, or any pet that delights us. Why do more than half of older adults in the U.S. choose to have pets?
Reflecting on my own experiences and those of friends and family, I had an “aha” moment when considering this question. I found studies that prove people with pets tend to live longer and have a more positive outlook on life for multiple reasons. Of course, there are other reasons we love our pets!
- They don’t ask endless questions.
- They aren’t judgmental.
- They don’t scold us if fed late.
Instead, we get adoring looks, love, licks, and purrs! Let’s dive deeper into the benefits of having a pet.
The Many Benefits of Pet Ownership
Owning a pet gives us a sense of purpose. Pets create a daily routine that includes feeding and watering them. After getting up for their pets (a dog that needs to go outside will not let you lie in bed!), older adults are then ready to attend to their own care requirements such as preparing meals, personal care, taking medications, and other activities of daily living.
Pets encourage physical activity. Whether it’s dogs who eagerly await walks or cats enjoying outings in pet strollers, pets compel their owners to engage in physical exercise, vital for maintaining health. Research supports that regular walking among the elderly leads to better psychological well-being, reduced cognitive decline, and improved physical function, including strength, balance, and endurance. In the process, the “couch potato” in you gets forced into daily physical exercise.
Studies prove that elderly folks who walk regularly experience overall improved psychological well-being, slower cognitive decline, and improved physical function in terms of strength, balance, and endurance.
Pets make us feel better.
Can pets communicate? Absolutely, say pet owners. They report knowing the meaning of each meow or woof. This interaction boosts verbal skills, memory, and cognitive functions for older adults, whether they live alone or with a partner.
Pets help to relieve stress.
Seniors also report that having pets provides valuable companionship, especially when their families are busy during the day. According to the American Heart Association, an impressive 95% of pet parents rely on their animals for stress relief, backed by science; interacting with pets releases endorphins and promotes relaxation. There’s a scientific reason for that; petting or playing with a pet releases endorphins and promotes relaxation.
Avenues Home Care Supports Our Pet-Loving Clients
At Avenues Home Care, we often encounter clients recovering from medical events or accidents who worry about their pet’s care. We are here to help, offering services like personal care, meal preparation, mobility assistance, medication reminders, and more. Our caregivers are also trained to manage pet care, ensuring your furry friends receive the attention they need, from feeding and walking to tender loving care during your recovery. We know there’s more on your mind.
We love pets and know how important they are to the people we serve. That’s why they are automatically included in the care plan. Your Caregiver will feed and water the pet, take them for walks, and give them the TLC they need if you are ill or unable to care for them as you’d like.
If you have a beloved pet and need assistance caring for both yourself and your furry companion, please reach out to us at Avenues Home Care at 972-961-8825 or info@avenueshomecare.com. Our compassionate Service Advisers are ready to tailor care services to perfectly suit both you and your pet’s needs.
Helen Trowsdale , RN, BSN, Aging Life Care Professional
Chief Compliance Officer
Avenues Home Care
“Your Journey, Our Care.”