It’s amazing just how therapeutic pets really are.

If you have a pet, you know they are not just an animal, they are friends and family. They are quiet listeners and entertainers, and they give us unconditional love. Pets are therapeutic.

Pets are great for older persons too. Whether they have a pet of their own or you bring a pet to visit here are some of the many benefits for older persons.

• Pets can reduce stress. Petting an animal and being in the presence of an animal can increase relaxation.
• Visiting a pet might relieve pain. Thinking about something else for a while can make us stop thinking about our feelings of pain.
• Pets can increase social interaction and decrease the feeling of loneliness that sometimes sneaks up on us as we age.
• Pet visits are one of the greatest activities for sensory stimulation. Interactions with animals enhance the sense of sight, smell, touch, and hearing.
• Pets can reduce issues of agitation and frustration. These issues may be replaced with more positive behaviors such as laughter, gentleness, and an overall feeling of happiness.
• Pets can increase physical activity levels. Whether an older person walks a dog, pets a cat, or feeds the birds or fish it requires physical activity which sometimes decreases with age.
• If your loved one owns a pet, it provides a wonderful companion as well as gives them something to care for. Having a daily routine that includes caring for a pet gives meaning to everyday life.

What you can do:

• Bringing a pet to visit an older family member or friend just enhances a visit. Do it often! Just make sure pets are comfortable interacting with others and are good in social situations.
• Nursing homes are places to bring pets to visit too! Check with an activity coordinator for policies on visiting pets.
• Help a senior with dementia to interact with a pet. Allow them to pet and talk to the animal. Again, make sure pets are comfortable interacting.
• Bring pictures of animals to show a senior or Grandparent. There are many funny animal videos on the internet to watch that would enhance any visit with a senior.
• Watch animals as they play, chew on bones, or do tricks for treats.
• Take a senior on a walk with your pet. Just make sure of safety when walking.

Considerations:

• Consider those individuals who do not enjoy all animals. For example, my dad loves horses and other farm animals but is not fond of dogs or cats. Be aware of their likes and dislikes.