It is a known fact that companion animals bring love, laughter and companionship to Senior Citizens who enjoy caring for one, bringing improved attitude, a purpose in life and the benefits of a purposeful, healthier life.
Pets bring a different outlook to elderly people who live on their own and without much contact with family or friends. It enables them to be active and feel needed, having to tend to their daily care.
The elder feels accepted just as they are, having a devoted, loving and forgiving pet as a companion. A pet interacts with their owner no matter what, without holding grudges, or having a difference of opinion or being judgmental.
Touch is essential to all human beings, and in the absence of a loving family, a pet comes close to providing that need for an elder. Having a cat sleeping on the lap, or the friendly touch or nudge from a dog makes an elder feel reassured, secure and loved, lowering blood pressure and lifting feelings of depression.
Pets become a talking point when `walking the dog’ , gets the elder out into the fresh air, where they meet others who are also pet lovers. Caring for a pet enables the elder to keep active mentally, physically and emotionally. Having a pet to care for stimulates the elder to perform daily tasks, giving them a feeling of independence and giving them self esteem.
Having to keep on the go promotes a sense of well being, ensuring that bathing and keeping well groomed becomes important to the individual. We all know that these tasks often become tiresome for the elderly, so it is important for them to keep up their morale.
Having a dog, especially, gives a sense of security, alerting the elder when someone arrives at the door, and also gives one plenty of enjoyment and laughter. Pets live for the moment and help an elderly person to keep focused and in touch and to overcome feelings of isolation and rejection.
Feeding an animal reminds the elder to look after themselves in the area of nutrition which is so important in keeping a healthy outlook on life. Good nutrition is essential for one to keep strong, healthy and active.
Meals on Wheels is committed to health for Seniors, and they deliver nutritious, cooked meals to the elderly who do not have the resources to fend for themselves.
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