As our loved ones grow older, it becomes increasingly important to ensure that they receive the best possible care and support. This is why senior living communities like Monarchs exist. At Monarchs Senior Living, seniors receive quality elder home care and assistance home care services that cater to their individual needs.
However, did you know that animal companions can also bring comfort and joy to seniors in these communities? In this article, we explore how animal companions bring comfort to seniors in Monarchs, and why they’re a valuable addition to an elderly home and retired living.
The Benefits Of Animal Companions For Seniors
Studies have shown that having animal companions can be extremely beneficial for seniors in a number of ways.
- Physically, they provide an opportunity for seniors to get some exercise and fresh air, which is important for maintaining good health.
- Emotionally, they offer companionship, unconditional love, and support, which can help reduce feelings of loneliness, depression, anxiety, and stress.
Four-legged Therapists: How Animal Companions Help Seniors Live Happier, Healthier Lives
Animal companions can also help seniors in retirement villages feel more engaged with life. The advantages of introducing an animal companion into retirement include:
- A Sense of Purpose & Responsibility: Having an animal companion gives seniors a reason to get up in the morning, and helps them feel needed and useful.
- Morale Booster: Animal companions can provide a source of joy and companionship, which can help seniors feel more content with their lives.
- Reduce Loneliness & Depression: Loneliness and depression are common issues for seniors, especially those living alone. Animal companions provide constant companionship and unconditional love, which can help alleviate these feelings.
- Improve Physical Health: Animal companions can encourage seniors to get up and move around, which is important for maintaining good physical health. In addition, some therapy animals can even help alleviate pain and reduce blood pressure.
- Improve Mental Health: Animal-assisted therapy has been shown to improve seniors’ cognitive function and memory. Additionally, interacting with animals can help reduce anxiety and stress, and even improve symptoms of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.
From Cats To Canaries: Choosing The Ideal Animal Companion For Your Senior Loved One
If you’re considering getting an animal companion for a senior loved one, it’s important to choose the right type of animal based on their needs and preferences. While any animal can technically be a companion for a senior, some types are better suited than others. Dogs and cats are the most popular choices, but other animals like birds, fish, and even reptiles can also make good companions.
- It’s also important to take into account any health issues or mobility concerns the senior might have.
- Consider factors like the senior’s living situation, their ability to care for the animal, and any allergies they might have.
- Check with the senior living community to see what types of animals are allowed.
- Finally, it’s essential to provide proper training and care for the animal companion to ensure that it can thrive in its new environment.
Give The Gift Of Companionship: Contact Monarchs Today to Learn More About Animal Companionship
If you’re interested in bringing an animal companion to a senior loved one at Monarchs, we encourage you to get in touch today. Our compassionate and professional team is here to answer any questions you might have about animal companionship for seniors, and we’ll work with you to ensure that your loved one receives the best possible care and support. Senior living can be a challenging time, but with the right support and care, we can make it a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all.