Anyone who has owned a dog knows how much pleasure they give. Many people consider their dogs a member of their family. Since many elderly folk reside in retirement complexes, it is important that they are able to keep their dogs with them. There are a lot of advantages to elderly people being able to own a dog.
Let’s take a look at some of the social benefits that come with dog ownership.
It is not uncommon for people on the street to stop you and greet your dog. This is no different for seniors. Having a dog breaks the ice and helps them make friends more easily, and the social interaction with others is great for their self-esteem.
On a similar note, seniors are less likely to be lonely when they have a canine companion to keep them company. Owning a dog helps them feel that they are needed. If an elderly person can’t own their own dog, for example they live in a nursing home, they benefit greatly from visits by a therapy dog. They often prefer a visit from a dog rather than another person. Therapy dogs have been given credit for encouraging reclusive elderly people to come out of their room and meet the other residents of their home.
If an elderly person loses their husband or wife, a dog is very helpful in easing them through the grieving process. The result is less adverse effects on the health of the person.
There are also health benefits that come with owning a dog.
It has been found that many dog owners benefit from reduced blood pressure. Stroking your dog can be very relaxing. It reduces the release of the stress hormone cortisol in the body, as well as increase the production of the ‘feel good’ hormone serotonin. Reduced cortisol levels also strengthen the immune system.
Dogs need exercise so elderly people who own dogs are more likely to go out for a walk. This is really important in helping them stay physically active. It also helps them manage their body weight, which is vital at any age. Furthermore, it has been proven that dog owners are less likely to suffer from depression than non-dog owners.
Often times, elderly folk with dementia feel quite isolated because they worry about muddling their sentences or repeating the same thing over and over again. Dogs don’t mind if they happen to do that, and can be great listeners.
Elderly people need to be able to spend time with dogs, to maintain and improve their wellbeing. If they are unable to own dogs themselves, having a dog to visit them as part of a pets as therapy program will do just fine. The benefits are worth it.
For more information on finding a good dog for a senior click
here
