Anyone who has ever owned a pet understands that they can have a stress-relieving effect in our lives. In fact, experts say that just 15 minutes with a cat or dog can promote hormonal changes in the brain which have a positive impact on our mood and overall health.
Not only does interaction with a domestic animal cause the brain to produce serotonin, which is known to increase our sense of well-being; but the brain also produces prolactin and oxytocin. Prolactin helps to regulate metabolism and the immune system, while oxytocin is critical to our ability to bond. For seniors who often feel alone or depressed, a therapy animal can work wonders.
Animals are encouraged more and more frequently at assisted living and memory care facilities, as they greatly enhance a resident’s quality of life. Therapy animals promote better emotional and physical health for seniors regardless of age or health condition. Whether chronically ill, disabled, or depressed – pets offer seniors amazing benefits.
Why Assisted Living Centers Encourage Pet Therapy
Many elder care facilities allows residents to have their own pets; however if they are not capable of caring for a pet, pet therapy is offered as a service. These animals offer unconditional love and unfettered joy, and can inspire even the most closed-off senior to come out of their shell, communicate and interact.
Studies have proven that senior citizens who are active and social retain their health and vitality longer than those who are depressed – and pet therapy is just another way to encourage them to keep enjoying and engaging in their lives. Here are just a few of the amazing statistics and facts about seniors who have access to pet therapy:
- Caring for an animal restores a sense of responsibility and purpose in a senior’s life; they thrive knowing that the animal needs them. It can also re-build self-confidence when they may feel that they have lost the ability to do many things they used to.
- The simple act of petting a dog or cat can lower blood pressure, normalize the heart rate, and significantly lower stress levels. For seniors who tend to get agitated, pet therapy is a great stabilizing factor. These animals can combat anxiety, fear and confusion, simply by being there.
- Due to these heart-healthy benefits, professionals tell us that among seniors with heart conditions or disease, pet owners – or those with access to animals – will live longer than those who do not have similar access to an animal.
- Because a senior wants to care for a dog, they often begin taking walks with them. This provides much-needed
physical exercise to those capable of doing so, and encourages them to move, stretch and get outside. People with dogs often report greater mobility over a short period of time. Feeding and grooming the animal help in a similar way. - Many dementia patients struggle with language and communication, and can feel isolated in a room full of people. Pet therapy animals demand no such activity, and simply provide unconditional love to a senior who desperately wants to feel connected.
- We all feel better when we can express our emotions, and pet therapy animals allow the senior resident to talk to their heart’s content, complain all they want, and even express their fears and sadness – all without judgement. Often, after “conversing” for a time with an animal, the senior will grow comfortable with the idea of further opening up to a friend, family member or health care professional.
At A Banyan Residence, we are committed to providing our residents with the very best quality of life. If you are looking for caring and compassionate care for your loved one, we invite you to tour our Venice assisted living and memory care facilities.
