{"id":3552,"date":"2021-06-14T07:00:00","date_gmt":"2021-06-14T13:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/civitasseniorl.wpenginepowered.com\/ariel-pointe-of-sachse\/benefits-of-pets-for-seniors\/"},"modified":"2026-04-05T20:51:23","modified_gmt":"2026-04-06T02:51:23","slug":"benefits-of-pets-for-seniors","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.civitasseniorliving.com\/ariel-pointe-of-sachse\/benefits-of-pets-for-seniors\/","title":{"rendered":"Benefits of Pets for Seniors"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
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The old saying goes that a dog is a man\u2019s best friend, but pets of all types can fill our hearts and fill our days with purpose and joy. If you consider adopting a pet as a senior, you can experience rich emotional rewards and multiple health benefits.<\/p>

Mental Health Benefits of Owning a Dog<\/h2>

Opening your home to a dog or cat can lead to multiple mental health benefits leading to a happier disposition, stronger social bonds, and deeper enjoyment of life.<\/p>

Social Interaction<\/h3>

The transition to an empty-nester can lead to loneliness and other unpleasant feelings. Adopting a pet boosts your social interaction in two distinct ways. You always have your furry friend close by to share life\u2019s joys and challenges. Plus, you can meet other pet owners while walking your pet, going to the vet, taking Bongo to the groomer, or simply heading to a dog park. You can build lasting bonds with fellow pet owners and find a supportive community.<\/p>

Creating Purpose<\/h3>

There\u2019s no idly sitting in a chair and watching the day go by when Fifi needs consistent care. Pets help you create a routine and live each day with purpose. Pets help seniors build a daily schedule around feedings, walks, trips to the bathroom, playtime, and bedtime.<\/p>

Constant Companionship<\/h3>

Life is always more rewarding when shared with others, and that adage is just as true about our canine and feline companions. A 2017 study published in the journal Acta Bio Medica concluded that interacting with a household pet increased the quality of life<\/a> and reduced feelings of loneliness<\/a> and apathy regarding pet therapy and the elderly, especially for patients with dementia or mental illness.<\/p>

Physical Health Benefits of Owning a Pet<\/h2>

In addition to the companionship owning a pet offers, living with your favorite furry pal promotes tangible health benefits that can have a long-lasting impact on your physical well-being.<\/p>

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Encourages Daily Exercise<\/h3>

Most people can attest that it\u2019s easy to be a couch potato with the lure of the TV or browsing the internet, but owning a pet is a great motivation to get up and move. While Fido scratches at the door for a walk, you reap the benefits of sunshine, increasing your heart rate, and exercising your mobility<\/a>. Incorporating a walk with your pup into your daily routine can improve your cardiovascular health and promote daily movement.<\/p>

Boosts Motor Skills<\/h3>

Owning a pet is an interactive endeavor. While you\u2019re brushing your cat\u2019s hair or preparing her favorite breakfast treat, you\u2019ll also be working on bilateral integration and eye-hand movement. The little tasks that fill you with love \u2013 like nighttime head scratches \u2013 keep your joints lubricated and your coordination sharp.<\/p>

Best Pets for Seniors<\/h2>

If you decide to adopt a pup, try to stick with smaller breeds that aren\u2019t as physically active. Ideal dogs for seniors are smaller breeds that are well-suited for apartment living. You might consider:<\/p>