Dogs and cats bring smiles to the faces of most people, including the elderly. This is why an adult care facility may offer pet-themed companion services to keep your aging loved one engaged. Below are a few of the many benefits that pet therapy provides.

How Spending Time With Animals Helps Seniors

1. Provides a Calming Effect

Seniors who interact with animals enjoy lower blood pressure, which calms the whole body. Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia often result in agitation because patients feel confused, frustrated, and scared. Behavioral problems also frequently decrease with consistent pet therapy, helping caregivers, and affected loved ones.

2. Improves Communication

Communication issues typically arise as Alzheimer’s or other cognitive problems progress. Many seniors find communicating with animals easier because they don’t have to worry about getting their feelings across or repeating themselves. Petting their animal friends and looking into their eyes is often enough.

3. Decreases Depression

Depression is common among seniors with dementia due to feelings of isolation and frustration. Those with mobility issues that prevent them from performing daily tasks often experience depressive feelings as well. Bonding with pets can boost the mood of loved ones to help them enjoy a higher quality of life.

4. Reduces Pain

Spending time with animals can reduce pain among seniors since anxiety makes their discomfort worse. Pet therapy can also lower the need for pain medication, which can help with recovery after a surgical procedure or manage chronic conditions such as arthritis.

5. Increases Physical Activity

Physical activity improves health and well-being regardless of age, including dementia patients and those with reduced mobility. Activities such as walking dogs and moving around to pet various animals will help seniors stay mobile, keeping their blood flowing and their muscles and joints limber. 

If animal therapy is right for your loved one, but you can’t accept the responsibility of a pet, consider adult day services from Coulee Region Adult Day Center. The Onalaska, WI, facility offers field trips to animal shelters to help more seniors enjoy pet therapy benefits. Call the adult care facility today at (608) 519-2306 to speak with a caregiver. You can learn more about companion services online. Get the latest updates from the adult care facility center on Facebook.