Pets for the Elderly

Pets for the Elderly

Most people in the English language have heard the saying “an apple a day keeps the doctor away.” While that very well may, or may not, be true—what about pets? Wouldn’t it be better if that Granny Smith were a Husky puppy? If that Delicious Red were a fluffy, gray kitten who purrs in your lap? Don’t misunderstand me, I’m not condoning eating the family pet, but instead supporting the idea that owning an animal can help your, and your family’s health. In 1999, people who were of the age 65 and older made up a little over 12% of the US population. Thirteen years later, that number is probably much higher. Pets, be it a cat, dog, rabbit, or even a hedgehog, can make a positive change in both the physical and mental health of the elderly. In the next few minutes, I will address the following: pets being able to help the elderly feel like they’re more connected to the world around them instead of just feeling isolated like most might in their small homes, pets being able to help improve and maintain their mental stability, as well as what one would need to keep in mind when getting a pet for an elderly loved one. As one begins to transition into an ‘elderly state’, occasionally a concern of feeling unwanted is present.

The majority of the elderly are parents whose children have long been in adulthood. More so are even widowed. They could find it pretty difficult to connect with the world around them and be social able- thus making them feel even more disconnected and alone. When they have a pet, the pet’s health is dependent upon them. They fulfill all of its necessities; including food, water, and—maybe most importantly—love and companionship. This can give them that all-important feeling of feeling needed again. Both felines and canines alike usually adore physical contact, and most will even go out of their way to seek it. A cat will curl up on one’s lap- or jump up on the couch and brush against your hand while starting the motor of it’s purr to gain your attention. A dog may roll around, lean up against you, lick at your hand, or even rest its head against your leg as it awaits your attention. The feeling of being lonely and feeling unloved can being detrimental to their mental health- a loving pet that is concerned with them and loves them, and their attention, can make a huge difference in their life.

One usually feels more relaxed when a cat gracefully prances on over, leaps into your lap, and rubs affectionately rubs against your want. A smile is very hard to conceal when a dog comes to you, tail wagging and excitement sparkling in its eyes. Pets are proven to help reduce stress; for example, 37 percent of patients who had an upcoming surgery who spent a short time with a dog had a reduction in their anxiety levels. Also, pets will not argue with you or pitch a fit. They wouldn’t slam a door in your face. They aren’t going to yell at you for being gone too long; they’ll be just as excited to see you if you’re gone for ten minutes... or for ten weeks. Dogs will still run up to you, excited, barking and jumping and struggling to lick you to death. Felines will be heard throughout the house meowing and coming to rub against your leg, and after the skeptic glare as if asking you why you smell different, they will be ready to be petted once more.
One must also figure out what pet is appropriate. Each elderly person is a unique individual, with needs of their own and a personality of their own. This must be kept in mind when picking a pet for him… or her. Do not get one without their permission; it could end badly for the pet because it might not be cared for correctly. Some may not have had a pet in the past, so be gentle and encourage them slowly. You could even share one of your own pets with them. Try and find them a pet that is calmer and will not tend to keep them awake at night. In this case, an older pet would probably be better than a younger one.

Pets can make a significant change in an elderly person’s life and this should be put into consideration. If they are missing contact with the real world and they often feel lonely, a pet can be an easy remedy to this. Most pets are low stress, if picked out right, since they do not ask for much and can help both the mental and physical health. Though, the individual’s needs have to be taken into consideration when picking the pet. Just like an apple. Except I wouldn’t recommend eating them.