It’s no secret that animals provide the companionship we all need. They do not just offer their love and loyalty to us hoomans, but scientifically, they also decrease certain health risks that keep us healthy to live a longer and happier life. This is most true for seniors.
The American Heart Association wrote a report in 2013, explaining that pet ownership decreases the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Cleveland Clinic also reported that pets help calm someone and elevate mood.
Pet ownership leads to a healthier lifestyle thanks to an increase in physical activities. This reduces risks for heart disease, stroke, cancer and diabetes, and is beneficial for those at risk for Alzheimer’s and dementia.
If you’re thinking of having a pet for a senior member of the family, here are some tips and guidelines to help you along the way.
First, choose a caregiver who have no trouble taking care of pets as well. Make sure you appoint someone who is comfortable with animals so you would not have any troubles with them in the future.
Second, you might want to plan where the pup or kitten will go if the senior pass away. It’s important to plan ahead so as not to just abandon the animal and leave it be.
You might want to read:
– The power of animal companions: Seniors consider their pets as lifesavers
– Woman dies trying to save dogs from burning house in Bacolod
– 5 benefits of having a pet in your senior years
