What Are the Benefits of Pets for Seniors?

Healthy Aging | 07/24/20

You must consider many factors when deciding what senior living community offers the best fit for you. Does it have the amenities you want? Are activities offered? And perhaps one of the more emotionally driven questions to ask, is it pet-friendly?

Dogs, cats, birds and more –there really is nothing like having a pet as your companion. Pets are much more than additional roommates; they truly become a part of the family. Coming home and immediately being greeted by a happy purr or lick on the hand instantly puts a smile on your face.

At Crestwood Manor, we believe we offer much more than a senior living community – this is a place for you to call home. One way we make your transition into senior living as smooth as possible is by offering pet-friendly apartments, so you won’t have to leave a beloved companion behind during your move. We also recognize that, along with being part of the family, pet ownership offers significant health benefits.

3 Health Benefits of Pets

1. Physical Wellness: Having a pet is good for your physical wellbeing. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that these health benefits of owning a pet include decreased blood pressure, cholesterol levels and triglyceride levels. This is due to the increased opportunities to venture outside and move your body, such as incorporating daily walks into your routine.
2. Mental Wellness: The bond between humans and animals offers powerful benefits to mental health. Just petting a dog or cat releases serotonin and dopamine, two hormones that calm the nerves and make you feel good. There is a true sense of stability, continuity and meaning in one’s life when taking care of and loving a pet.
3. Social Wellness: Your days are filled with more social opportunities and activities since pets, especially dogs, need to keep moving. Studies show that pets become facilitators of multiple dimensions of social readiness, including getting to know people and friendship formation.

While pet owners live healthier, happier lives, caring for another living creature takes extra time and effort. Still, considering the benefits pets bring, you may find it more than worth the extra commitment. The companionship of animals is well-documented and widespread; pets are truly a part of your family.

Discover Pet-Friendly Senior Living at Crestwood Manor

As a pet-friendly community, we are happy to welcome both you and your pets. This is one way we make sure that when you choose Crestwood Manor, you aren’t only choosing premier senior living housing. You’re choosing a place that’s comfortable for you.

Contact us today and schedule a tour to see how you and your four-legged friend can find a home in our community.