Assisted Living Articles » Specific concerns
Pets in Assisted Living
The benefits of pet ownership are no secret to any of us. But those benefits are especially valuable to seniors. If you are considering assisted living for a family member with or without a pet you should consider the benefits of pet friendly communities.
In some communities there is a resident pet; a dog or cat that resides in the home that belongs to all the residents. This is a great way to enjoy the benefits of pet companionship without the responsibility of its care. These pets are screened, healthy and have appropriate temperament for a building serving the elderly.
Some assisted living communities will allow dogs and cats but will have restrictions as to size. Some will evaluate, case by case. A large gentle, quiet dog may be better than a small, frisky pup that barks all the time and chews furniture. You will probably be asked to pay a fee for your pet. Most fees are non-refundable and cover the cost of possible damage to apartment suites. The deposit ranges from about $200 to $1000 dollars. Any pet must have proof of current vaccinations, health records, and of course, a license. But what if a senior is no longer able to care for her pet? What if a cat box needs changing or a dog needs a walk twice a day? Who will take the animal to the vet? What about grooming? The answers to these questions will depend upon the community you choose.
There are communities that will care for your loved one's pet in residence. They will charge a fee, but they will walk the dog, change the litter box, change the bird cage or feed the fish. There are also outside pet care professionals that will care for an assisted living animal, inclusive of walking a pet or grooming them. Just about any pet related service is available if you are willing to pay for it. And from the current information available about the benefits of pets to seniors, it might well be worth it.
The simple act of petting an animal can raise endorphin levels, reduce blood pressure and decrease cholesterol. Pets promote psychological well being and greatly reduce stress and anxiety. They love us unconditionally and satisfy our need to touch and be touched. They can reduce the feelings of loneliness and isolation older adults often experience. They help give us a reason to live and feel valued.
According to the Delta Society, world-renowned pet therapy providers since 1977, seniors with dogs go to the doctor less, have higher survival rates following coronary and stroke incidents. Pet owners seem to cope better with the problems of aging.
Many assisted living communities have visiting animal programs as part of their activity calendar. Some of the regional animal obedience societies now have traveling dog shows that visit senior communities regularly.
Alzheimer's patients seem to gain particular benefits from the presence of animals. You don't need memory to interact with a dog or cat. The pets adapt their behaviors well to people who may sporadically or have problems with walking or talking. The pets don't care if you remember their name and often these new pets trigger fond memories of the important past of someone with little or no short-term memory.
Many seniors have been pet owners their entire lifetime. Enjoying the companionship of a pet can help ease a transition and help increase a person's quality of life.
CHOICE can help you choose a community that is pet friendly.
Call us at 800-361-0138.
Last update: 2007-06-04 19:41
Author: Support
Revision: 1.0
