Unconditional Love From Pets Leads to Better Health For SeniorsPosted on | June 28, 2010 The Journal of American Geriatrics Society published a study showing that seniors that live by themselves with pets have “better physical and mental health than those that don’t. They are more active, cope better with stress, and have better overall health.” Lower overall blood pressure was found in the seniors with pets. In a senior residential community called Eden Alternative and has birds, dogs, cats, rabbits, and chickens, there was a “15% lower mortality rate than traditional nursing homes over the past five years.” Why is this? The physical exercise that comes with owning a pet is one reason. Walking the dog, feeding the pets, cleaning their bowls, maintaining their litter habits, and petting and grooming them all require constant physical activity. These daily requirements are a constant motivator to be more active. Companionship is healthy for senior living as well. With or without family and friends, a pet is another personal friend and can “act as a support system.” While other seniors may not come into contact with many people at all, these pets can sometimes be the only companionship some seniors have, which can help with depression. Also, these daily requirements give order to a person’s life when there may not be any. “The animals help patients keep their mind off their problems,” says Jean S. Uehl, the center’s director of nurses. “The love the patients get from the animals is unconditional.” Interested? Owning a pet is a big responsibility, financially as well. Remember the activities required for them that can oftentimes become a burden if the person’s heart is no longer in owning a pet. When you’re ready, check out the humane society. Many pets at the humane society are already spayed or neutered, are up-to-date on costly puppy or kitten shots, are potty trained, and their demeanor is already known. It’s also important to plan ahead in case a retirement community is in the future, where they may not allow pets. Having a “god parent” for your pet is very important. Sending a pet back to the humane society gives them a lack of trust of people and decreases their chance of happiness again. Information obtained from http://www.healthypet.com/PetCare/PetCareArticle.aspx?art_key=1973ee87-a0d7-4f77-a930-1824ffcf8eda. Post by Kate Valdovinos. Category: Aging in America, Caregiving, Caring for an aging parent, Healthy Aging, Senior Home Care, Senior Living
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