Choosing A Pet For An Older Adult

Pets can help older adults feel needed and loved, particularly if your loved one has lost a spouse or companion.

Studies have found that petting a cat or dog can help reduce hypertension. Pets can also increase a person's social engagement – which is vital to and older adults' well being.

If your loved on isn't very agile, having a small animal around may increase their risk of tripping and falling down. Pets can be destructive. Cats can scratch up upholstery; dogs may chew and scratch woodwork and doors.

Think about your loved one's future living arrangement. Maybe in a few years he/she will need to move into an assisted living facility. Some retirement communities have pet restrictions.

Dogs provide great companionship. They also provide exercise opportunities for the older adult as they walk and play with their dog. Typically, small dogs are recommended for older adults. They are easier to carry and enjoy sitting on a lap and receiving a lot of attention. But even small dogs demand a lot of care.

Dog and cats aren't the only pet options. If having a neat and tidy home free of pet hair is important to your loved one, than consider a pet confined to a cage or an aquarium. Numerous studies have shown health and stress management benefits for watching aquarium fish. Birds – with their singing and talking - can also be a nice companion for an older adult.

If you do decide to get a pet for your loved one, be sure to have a contingency care plan in place. Who will take care of the pet if your loved one is hospitalized or becomes disabled or ill? As your loved one ages, they may need regular help with the grooming and care of their pet. This responsibility may fall onto you, the caregiver.