Seniors can face potential situations where their mental health can have a negative impact. This can be the loss of loved ones, retirement, physical limitations, and other factors. On top of this, they are also looking for the best ways to cope and maintain their mental health on a regular basis. One of the best solutions for them is having a pet that will provide you with comfort, stability, and companionship among others.
We will be taking a look at the following four ways a pet can help seniors improve their mental health. Let’s get started with everything you need to know now.
1. Reduces Symptoms of Common Mental Health Issues
Seniors who are dealing with depression, anxiety, or PTSD can benefit from having a pet. The presence of a pet can allow a senior to remain calm and reduce their levels of stress and anxiety. A psychiatric service dog (PSD) can make a huge difference in a senior’s life, especially since pets can often sense the slightest bit of trouble from their senior companions.
They can alleviate symptoms, provide deep pressure therapy, and also interrupt panic attacks. Pets are always welcome in stressful moments, making it one excellent reason why seniors should have one.
2. Reduces Loneliness and Social Isolation
Of course, seniors will feel less lonely and isolated with the presence of a pet in their life. Quiet moments alone will be replaced by having fun and receiving attention from your pet.
Better yet, you and your four-legged companion can spend more time outdoors and go on walks together. You might also lessen your social isolation by meeting other pet owners while you’re both out and about.
Building social connections could result in owning a pet. You can meet up with like-minded individuals including those in your senior community. Not only will you have the opportunity to make new friends, but so will your pet. It will be a win-win for you both while you can enjoy social activities or while you’re indulging in a new hobby such as photography or gardening.
3. It Encourages Physical Activity and Better Health
As mentioned, physical activity can be great for both seniors and their pets. Not to mention, it will also improve overall physical, mental, and emotional health. Think about it: it would be awesome for you and your pet to have a regular outdoor routine where there is plenty of walking and playtime to boost endorphins.
Plus, you’ll also see improvements in cardiovascular health – which can reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke. This can also give you an excellent opportunity to put together a routine plan for you and your pet. It doesn’t have to be a schedule packed with strenuous activities with your dog. Make plans to walk at least a mile per day or spend an hour or two outdoors.
Of course, it should be noted that you should plan accordingly and pay attention to any weather conditions that may either help or hinder your planned activities. Alternatively, you can make plans to move around with your pet during days where inclement weather is more than possible.
Consider indoor dog parks or spaces where pets may be allowed. This way, it will give you a good opportunity to get your exercise in – even if it’s in an indoor setting.
4. Improves Mood, Especially During Grief Periods
For those who may have lost a loved one or a friend, pets can be an excellent way to improve a senior’s mood during this difficult period. They will be an excellent source for consistent comfort and emotional support.
Pets never judge humans, all the more reason why they can be great to have during someone’s moments of grief and emotional distress. Pets like service dogs are specially trained to detect certain emotional cues that their owner’s display – which will allow them the chance to provide support to them whenever necessary.
Final Thoughts
Seniors and pets go together quite well thanks to the four ways we’ve just put together for you. If you’re a senior that lives alone or may live with a loved one or family members, a pet can be an excellent addition to have. More importantly, they will provide you with more than just mere companionship, but rather emotional support that may go above and beyond.
CertaPet has services that are available in assisting seniors in qualifying for a psychiatric service dog. For more information, please be sure to visit their website on how you can be able to qualify based on your current needs.