Owning pets is one of life’s great joys.
It doesn’t matter whether it’s a cat, dog, or even a beloved budgerigar that’s part of the family – time and again, keeping pets has been proven to have countless physical and mental health benefits for elderly people.
Among these, six of the most well-known include:
1. Combating loneliness
Loneliness is one of the most destructive aspects in life for any older person. The companionship a pet provides does wonders for those who are living alone in particular, as they have someone to enjoy quality time with.
2. Providing a sense of purpose
Looking after a pet gives people another reason to jump out of bed every day. Additionally, it gives owners greater structure to their day and can help fight against feelings of worthlessness, which can lead to depression.
3. Better heart health
Regular interaction with pets has been shown to lower blood pressure and cholesterol. Taking a dog for walks if able to also helps maintain a level of fitness.
4. Better mental health
Studies have shown that pet ownership can slow the impact of dementia in affected elderly people, whilst simultaneously elevating their mood.
5. Improved quality of life
Caring for a pet can also translate to fewer trips to the doctors for elderly people, according to peer-reviewed medical journals. This is due to owners keeping active in order to keep pets healthy.
6. Potential to improve life span
Last but not least, a worldwide study involving nearly four million people showed that owning a dog was “associated with a 24% reduction in all cause mortality.”
Despite the obvious importance of pets, it’s sadly all too common for elderly people to be forced to give up their beloved animal when it’s decided they need to be moved to a care home. But it doesn’t have to be this way.
Trusting Blossom Home Care to deliver premium care to elderly people in the happy surroundings of their own home enables them to keep pets for as long as possible.
As part of our all-encompassing services, our brilliant carers not only help look after pets, but also ensure clients are involved as much as possible – such as enabling them to safely take their dog for a walk.
It’s all part of our fully tailored holistic care approach. From the moment you enquire, we work incredibly closely with the client and their loved ones to understand exactly what care is required and, critically, what makes them happy.
If you know someone who would benefit from our help so they can stay safe and happy in their own home, please do not hesitate to get in touch. You will be helping to change their life immeasurably for the better.
Ready to experience a new level of care?
Blossom Home Care has an unbreakable commitment to delivering exceptional levels of service. If you want to find out more about how our superb carers can help your loved ones, please contact us today: https://www.blossomhomecare.co.uk/contact-us/
We look forward to helping you.
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