As well as being man’s best friend, dogs may well be man’s best therapist. If you’re an animal lover, you know how good it feels to interact with a furry friend. Many therapists and senior care providers are helping elderly adults experience the benefits of animal companionship through pet therapy. If you’ve never heard of it, here is a guide to how it works and how your elderly loved one may be able to benefit from it. 

What Is Pet Therapy? 

Pet therapy, sometimes called animal-assisted therapy, is a type of therapy that uses animals to treat certain mental health issues. The health benefits of animal companionship are well-documented, and animal therapy is used in a variety of settings for individuals of various demographics. Animal-assisted therapy is frequently used to help senior citizens in hospitals, nursing homes, retirement homes, and senior centers. Patients may have a companion animal that lives with them full-time, or they may visit with a therapy animal during therapy sessions. While dogs and cats are the most common therapy animals, horses and others can also offer therapeutic companionship. 

Why Is It Beneficial for Seniors? 

Pet therapy can improve seniors’ physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. Interacting with animals can boost endorphins, reduce stress, and lower blood pressure and heart rate. Furthermore, it can promote mental stability and emotional wellness in seniors with mental health and cognitive struggles such as Alzheimer’s, dementia, and depression. Interacting with animals releases serotonin and dopamine, both of which are considered “happy hormones.” Playing with pets can also stimulate the brain and improve cognitive function. Pets can also provide emotional support and help seniors combat loneliness. For seniors who are able, walking with a pet can also boost physical health by providing a form of light cardio exercise. 

If you’re interested in pet therapy for yourself or an elderly loved one, turn to West Vue Inc in West Plains, MO. This respected senior care provider offers weekly animal-assisted therapy sessions as a part of their comprehensive residential care services. Call (417) 256-2152 to speak with a caring staff member to schedule a walk-through or consultation to see if this retirement home is right for your family. Visit the website to learn more about their affordable assisted living, independent living, and nursing care options.