by Kay Bidwell | Mar 5, 2020 | Uncategorized
Elderly woman petting a dog. The combination of seniors and pets can provide wonderful benefits for our older citizens. Most folks who have ever had a pet are aware that animals just make us feel good. Research tells us that only 15 minutes spent bonding with an animal can set off a chemical reaction in the brain that lowers stress hormones and increases “feel-good” hormones. The immediate result is slower heart rate, lower blood pressure and a reduction in stress. Over time, it appears pet & people interactions can improve physical, mental and emotional health. This can be especially powerful for seniors and pets. Physical Benefits Caring for a pet requires some physical activity, whether walking or brushing a dog, playing with a cat or getting up to feed the fish and clean its tank. Regular movement has many health benefits beyond improving mobility. Exercise has been shown to help manage or even prevent age-related illnesses and elevate your mood. Research has shown that pet owners generally visit the doctor less often, take less medication, recover from illness faster, and cope better with stress. Mental Benefits Being with a pet provides mental and memory stimulation. Pets live in the moment and can help keep us focused on the present. Planning for the needs of a pet gives our lives added meaning and purpose. Petting an animal has a calming effect that has been shown to decrease agitation in folks with dementia and just makes seniors and pets feel better. Cat & dog snuggling. Emotional Benefits Connecting with an animal can reduce loneliness and bring about a renewed interest in...
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