Pets offer benefits for older adults

Norman, a handsome, friendly two year old black Labrador is a frequent visitor to Albion Court , an assisted living community specializing in memory care.

Welcomed by all with the possible exception of Buttercup, the community’s “cat in residence”, Norman raises spirits and provides a wonderful opportunity for residents to reminisce about beloved pets.

A trip to Albion Court for Norman will likely include sharing time, and possibly a little dinner, with his “grandmother” who always thoroughly enjoys their visits.

For many of us, pets are a very important part of our lives. We hold fond memories of pets we have loved over our lifetimes and can’t imagine a life without our dog or cat.

As it turns out, our love for animals may have positive benefits for our health.

A quick search of the internet shows countless studies finding that pet ownership reduces stress, increases activity level, reduces loneliness, lowers blood pressure, decreases the chance of depression and helps people deal with grief and loss. The health benefits may be particularly true for older adults. Imagine all of these without a single concern about Medicare payments or paperwork!

While pet ownership has many positive points, it is not for every older adult. It’s easy to fall in love with a cute dog or cat, but spend some time carefully considering your choice.

Laurelin Sitterly, from the Rhode Island SPCA suggests that older adults first check shelters and rescues for older pets in need of a loving home. These pets are typically housetrained, calmer and less likely to exhibit unpredictable behavior than a puppy or kitten.

Another benefit is that shelters or rescue organizations may have special, cost effective programs to help seniors adopt pets. In many areas spay or neuter charges and initial vaccinations may be offered at lower prices when a senior adopts an adult animal.

According to Laurelin, it is important to think about possible limitations you might have in caring for a pet.

• Are you able to walk a dog every day or would a cat be a better choice?
• What type of pet will your home comfortably accommodate? Do you have a fenced yard for a dog? Does your apartment allow pets?
• Is the pet’s size and temperament appropriate for your accommodations? People living in a congregate setting such as a retirement community or apartment building will need a quiet, docile pet.
• Do some homework on the costs involved in pet ownership. Food, grooming, vet bills and medications can add up.
• Find a pet that fits into your lifestyle. For most seniors an older, calmer animal will be easier to handle.
• Research breed characteristics before selecting a pet. A high energy, constantly active dog such as a Border Collie is likely not an appropriate choice for an older adult.
• If you are ill do you have someone who will help care for your pet?

If you love animals but find that your lifestyle won’t accommodate a full time pet, consider fostering a dog or cat from a rescue organization.

In this challenging economy many families have had to surrender pets and shelters are overwhelmed.

For those who just aren’t able to have an animal in their home, how about volunteering at an animal shelter? There are many lonely animals in need of a walk or just a little love.

With the proper planning, a pet can add enjoyment, companionship, purpose and better health to your life. For thousands of pets in shelters and rescues, a loving home with a caring older adult is a true lifesaver.