It’s not uncommon for our clients to have a pet—usually a cat or a small dog that’s been with them for years. There are plenty of benefits to pet ownership at every age, including for seniors, and for some families, pets feel like part of the family. They provide good company, add joy to a senior’s day and provide a sense of routine, among other things. Pet ownership isn’t right for everyone, but it’s wonderful for many!
If your aging relative is thinking about bringing a pet into their home, there are a few things to consider. Here’s an overview of the positives, the downsides and the questions we encourage you to discuss with your loved one before committing to an animal. If you have any questions or would like to know more about in-home caregiver support from Living Assistance Services, please contact us. We’d be glad to hear from you.
Seniors and pets: the positives
- Research has indicated that seniors who own a pet (such as a cat or a dog) feel less isolated and are less likely to suffer from depression than others in their age group.
- If your aging loved one is physically able to accompany a small dog on walks, having a pet may help them get regular exercise. This can decrease their risk of dementia and help improve their physical health.
- Pets help create a daily routine, which can be beneficial to seniors.
- Pets provide companionship and affection, supporting your aging loved one’s mood and mental health.
The downsides
- Pets can be a tripping hazard for older individuals.
- Pets are a significant responsibility, and not all seniors have the physical/cognitive skills to take care of an animal.
- Both dogs and cats can be costly to care for (food, veterinary care, etc).
- If your aging loved one is hospitalized, someone will have to step in and provide pet care during an already challenging time.
Questions seniors should ask themself before adopting a pet
- Is their housing situation pet-friendly? For example: are they in a detached house with a yard, a condo that allows cats/small dogs, or a building with a rule against pets?
- How much care and attention will the pet need, and can they provide it?
- Would it make sense to adopt an older animal, like an adult or senior cat? They may require more care but they’re also more likely to be mellow/less energetic.
- If they pass away, is there a family member who is willing to take over pet care for the rest of the animal’s life?
Making the decision that’s right for your family
No two seniors or families are exactly alike, so deciding to adopt a pet is a personal choice. For some, a dog may be too much work (and energy!) but a cat is just right, while for others, a pet-free household is what’s best. We encourage seniors and their families to think this decision through, consider their needs and abilities, and do what’s right for them. Thanks for reading and if you’d like to know more about high quality homecare services in the Toronto area, please contact us.