Best Pets for Independent Living
Pets provide several physical and emotional benefits, regardless of your age. However, they are importantly beneficial to seniors who need help reducing stress, more physical activity, and unconditional love. Like other pets, pets for senior living have different needs, time, energy requirements, and financial commitments. These are key factors that senior adults should consider when choosing a pet for senior living.
Benefits of Pets for Independent Living
Several studies have linked pets to various positive health benefits, especially for older adults. Apart from companionship, cats, dogs, and birds come with unconditional love and activity. According to a National Poll on Healthy Aging, more than half of the study participants owned at least one pet. 79% of pet owners agreed that pets help them reduce stress.
With 40% of aging adults admitting to loneliness, pets provide much-needed companionship and help prevent various health issues. Pets for senior living also help:
- Ease pain
- Helps seniors stick to routines
- Keep aging seniors active
- Makes seniors sociable
- Best Pets for Seniors
Not all pets are equal and perfect for any senior adult. For instance, some seniors generally don’t like dogs or cats. Below are some of the best pets for senior living.
Devoted Dogs
Dogs are also widely known to be man’s best friend. They are perfect independent living companions for seniors who can play, take walks, and snuggle. Unlike cats, there’s a wide array of dog breeds for independent living. Most of these dogs are low-maintenance and suited to small homes. They include:
- Maltese
- Shih Tzus
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- Snub-nosed pugs
- Greyhounds
- Boston terriers
- Welsh Corgis
Frisky Felines
Cats provide excellent company for old adults. They don’t bark, thrive indoors, and have unique personalities. Cats also don’t need frequent attention, save for belly rubs and ear massages. The best cat breeds for seniors include Burmilla, Birman, ragdoll, and British Shorthairs.
Feathered Friends
Senior adults who enjoy calming vocals should consider adopting a pet bird. They are fun, easy to look after, and clean, and they can thrive in small spaces with fewer interactions. While the choice of pet birds differs, finches, parakeets, and canaries are excellent breeds.
Join The Family
If you or your loved one is thinking of moving to a senior living community, Park Central offers pet-friendly senior living opportunities. The center recognizes the importance of pets’ companionship, fun, and love to senior adults. Park Central’s living communities that accept pets include The Continental (floor one to three) and the first floor of Plemons Court.
