Owning a pet is a wonderful experience, especially if you are in senior living communities. It can help you have a healthier lifestyle and improve your mental health. Additionally, owning a pet can make the difference between loneliness and happiness living alone. So now that we’ve convinced you that a pet can be good for you – let’s talk about how they can help keep you active in senior living in Blackwood, NJ!
Pets Help You Socialize
Pets are an excellent source of socialization. They can help you make friends, build relationships, and keep up with your neighbors. Pets also provide comfort when you’re feeling lonely or sad. If you don’t have a pet or have never had one, try visiting a local rescue shelter where pets are available for adoption.
Pets Can Provide A Sense Of Purpose
Pets can provide a sense of purpose. While the rest of your family may have moved on from the house, you’ll still have your pet waiting for you when you get home. Your pet will be there to greet you as soon as you arrive, making them one of the first things that make your day feel complete and worthwhile. Pets can help you feel needed, helpful, and like you are contributing to society in some small way.
Pets May Lower Stress Levels
Pets can be a great source of social support, especially for aging family members who may feel lonely or isolated. Research has shown that pet owners report lower levels of anxiety and depression than non-pet owners. A pet can provide the security and companionship that people typically get from family members or friends, which can help reduce stress and improve moods.
Pet Ownership Encourages Activity
One of the best ways to stay active is by engaging your pet. A pet can be an excellent motivator for aging family members to get up and move around, so you must take advantage of that opportunity. You can go on walks with them or play fetch in the park.
Dogs Can Be Great Companions
You may have heard that dogs are one of the best companions for aging family members. They can provide a sense of purpose and help you to socialize. Many people who own pets in senior living communities say they feel calmer and less stressed after spending time with them. An excellent way to get started is by getting involved with a local dog-walking group or volunteering at an animal shelter.
If you don’t like dogs but want another companion animal, cats make great companions too! Cats are relaxing and cuddly, just like dogs—they even purr when happy. They also require less care than dogs, meaning fewer trips outside for walks or vet visits, so there aren’t as many opportunities for accidents or injury either (although most cats will still need regular veterinary checkups).
If you’ve been thinking about adopting a new furry friend but aren’t sure how to navigate senior living communities and their rules, here are some tips:
- Call ahead to ensure your community allows animals in the first place.
- Find out if there is any additional paperwork required for specific animals (like dogs vs. cats)
- Check that there is adequate space in your apartment or house for the animal (if applicable).
Conclusion
While the thought of getting a pet may seem overwhelming, it’s important to remember that pet ownership can be an excellent way for residents to improve their quality of life. So if you’re considering adopting an animal into your senior living community—or if you already have one! —These are all excellent reasons your furry friend can be such an asset.
