While every person is different, for many elderly people, having a pet can be highly beneficial. When you include pet therapy or pet ownership in elderly care, you can easily see how animals can provide comfort, as well as companionship. Here are a few of the benefits of pets in elderly care:
- Helps the elderly focus on the present. The future can be difficult to think about, but having a pet that has present needs (and demands, in the case of certain ones!) may help your loved one enjoy each day instead of worrying about the future.
- Helps the elderly feel less lonely. It can be a lonely world when many of the friends your age have passed away and you can no longer take part in many of the activities you used to. A pet can be a wonderful companion and an important part of elderly care.
- A pet can help with memory recall. When someone is suffering from dementia, Alzheimer’s or other memory issues, it is interesting how interacting with their pet can help them recall certain memories related to their pet.
- A pet can help the elderly focus on something besides their limitations and health concerns. Even retirement homes that bring in animals from time to time as an elderly care activity notice that everyone seems happier while the animals are present.
If you have been on the fence about seeking out an assisted living facility for your loved one because you don’t want them to be separated from their beloved pet, turn to us at The Almost Home Group. Our residential homes are the closest thing to being in their own home, and we even allow residents to bring a small pet with them. We also bring in other animals from time to time because we recognize the benefits that can be achieved, especially with dementia patients. We are confident that you will see that our elderly care services and our alternative approach to assisted living are ideal for your loved one. Call today to tour one of our three homes centrally located in the Piedmont Triad, North Carolina area.
