Pets and Seniors: An Unexpectedly Positive Relationship

Studies have shown that pets can provide a positive impact on people’s mental, physical, and emotional health. This is especially true for seniors, who often live alone and may experience loneliness or depression. The bond between a pet and their senior companions can be incredibly beneficial for both the pet and the senior.

The Benefits of Pet Ownership for Seniors

Pet ownership offers a plethora of benefits to seniors. At Empire Home Health Care in Philadelphia, PA, we understand just how important these animals are to our elderly community members. Let’s take a look at some of the ways that pets can improve an elderly person’s quality of life.

Mental Health Benefits

Studies have found that seniors who own pets are less prone to depression than those without animals in their lives. In addition, pet owners tend to be more social than those without pets because they often go out with their animal companions or interact with other pet owners in public places such as parks or stores. This extra socialization improves overall happiness and decreases feelings of isolation or loneliness.

Physical Health Benefits

Having a pet encourages physical activity as well as increased mobility due to having to take care of it. Taking dogs on walks helps them get exercise while walking cats around the house gives seniors something to do while keeping them active. Additionally, cuddling with an animal provides comfort and security during times when they may feel anxious or scared.

Emotional Support

Pets offer unconditional love and support which is invaluable for seniors who may not receive much attention from family members or friends due to distance or other factors. Animals provide companionship which is especially beneficial for seniors living alone since it reduces feelings of loneliness and isolation while also providing them with someone (or something) to talk to whenever needed. In addition, playing with animals releases “happy hormones” like oxytocin which helps ease stress levels and improve moods overall!

Conclusion

At Empire Home Health Care in Philadelphia, PA we understand how important pets can be for seniors living alone or in assisted living facilities. Through our home health care services we work closely with our clients and make sure their needs are met by providing personalized care tailored specifically for each individual’s needs — including pet ownership if applicable! Contact us today if you would like more information about our services or if you need help taking care of your beloved companion! We look forward to hearing from you!