Ongoing research seeks to
pinpoint the therapeutic benefits of pet ownership (such as reduced blood
pressure), but we don’t really need science to tell us about the many ways pets
can enhance our lives. They offer a furry shoulder to cry on and unconditional
love. They offer amusement and loyal companionship. No wonder over 66 million
American and 7.5 million Canadian households own a pet.
Pet ownership can hold real benefits for seniors, too. As Sandra
shared in the online Remember for Alzheimer’s Facebook
community: “My husband is in advanced Alzheimer's. We have a cocker spaniel,
six years old, who we have had since she was eight weeks old. My hubby loves
this dog to no end. Sadly he cannot remember her name now, but he is still her
best friend. They sit in the same recliner all day long.”
Pets
may also provide comfort to caregivers, as Mona described:
“My mom
has Alzheimer’s, end stages. She stays at home and my dad, myself and a couple
of others take care of her. My dad got a dog in November, and loves him so
much. He treats him like his son. His dog Archie loves my dad and helps my dad
not to be lonely, when I'm not there.”
Of
course, pet ownership may not be appropriate for every senior. Here are five
questions to consider before bringing a pet into your loved one’s life.
1. Is
anyone allergic?
It’s
hard to enjoy a pet if it makes you sneeze, break out in a skin rash or suffer
an asthma attack. That’s why it’s important to rule out any medical reasons for
not getting a pet.
First
make sure your loved one has no allergies to pet dander. Next, poll everyone
who provides care for your loved one to see if they have pet allergy issues. If
anyone is allergic, then you should probably avoid getting a pet. Despite the
popular term “hypoallergenic pet,” you need to realize that technically there
is no such thing as an allergy-free animal.
2. Who
will care for Fido?
Caring
for a pet can provide a senior loved one with a real sense of purpose. No
longer is your family member only a care-receiver; now he or she can be a
care-giver, too.
But not
all seniors may be able to take care of a pet on a daily basis. Be sure to take
into account their ability to meet its needs—now and in the future. Will your
loved one remember to feed and water the animal? Will he or she be able to walk
the dog twice a day?
If
physical or cognitive decline renders your senior family member unable to care
for the pet, who will step in to help? If you think you eventually may need to
remove the pet from the home, realize it can be an emotionally wrenching
experience for both your family member and the animal.
3. What
breed makes the best couch potato?
Companionship
represents one of the greatest benefits of pets for seniors. Simply having a
warm body to hug, stroke and love can keep a senior calm and congenial.
For
this reason, you probably want to avoid getting a high-strung or high-energy
dog or cat. Instead, opt for animals that exhibit an easygoing temperament.
Some dog breeds, such as golden retrievers, are known for their laid-back
nature. And sedate, elderly cats can be hard for shelters to adopt out,
creating a win for both your loved one and the kitty. Consider choosing an animal
that will be happy to sit quietly and snuggle with your loved one for hours on
end.
4. Are
you a cuddler?
Golden
retrievers may be couch potatoes, but they’re not lap dogs. If your senior
family member wants a pet that can be held and cuddled, be sure to get one of
an appropriate size. And if bathing and grooming the pet won’t be an issue for
you or your loved one, you might consider choosing a breed with longer, silkier
hair. These animals can be a delight to touch and hug.
5. Who
will choose the new pet?
It can
be hard to cope with the loss of physical function or the cognitive decline
that often accompany aging. Seniors often report feeling depressed when they
become dependent on others for their care. Having a pet to take care of can
help a senior feel needed again.
To
start that journey to restored purpose, let your family member choose the pet
instead of surprising them with a dog or cat as a gift. Allowing your loved one
to pick out the new pet confers a sense of control and decision-making power
they may be lacking in other areas of their life.
Take a
trip to the shelter together and let your senior relative meet a selection of
animals to see how they interact. If you’re concerned about your loved one’s
decision-making ability, call the shelter ahead of time and tell them what
types of pets you’re looking for. That way, your family member will interact
with a pre-screened group that meets your criteria.
A furry
family member can be a valuable part of your caregiving team. They offer
boundless, unconditional love, lend a non-judgmental ear when you need to vent
and can provide an amusing distraction with their antics.
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