Did you know that 62% of pet owners say their furry friends reduce stress and anxiety? If you know a senior who is considering adding a pet to their home in a senior living community, tell them they're making an excellent choice. With a pet at their side, seniors can gain companionship and a reason to be more active.
The benefits don't end there, either. Read on to discover what to expect in pet-friendly assisted living communities in Roswell, GA!
While anyone can benefit from adopting a dog or cat, for seniors, the benefits are even more significant. The emotional boost that comes with having a furry friend around can be life-changing. Pets offer:
For seniors without family nearby or a spouse in Roswell, isolation can be a big problem. Seniors may become more reclusive as they age. And retreating from social interactions can hinder mental and physical wellness.
Pets can provide love and affection, as well as cuddles, for seniors living alone. They add a lively presence to any living space, and an excuse to head out the front door. Pets can be the perfect antidote to loneliness and seclusion.
Pets give their owners a reason to be social and participate in activities. Dogs need walks, for example, and those daily walks can lead to impromptu conversations with others in the community. Dog walking can also help seniors stay mobile, which can enhance cardiovascular health and muscle tone.
Lastly, pets give seniors a sense of purpose and responsibility as they approach each day. Seniors will enjoy the chance to act as caretakers for their furry friends. The simple gestures of feeding, grooming, and interacting with a pet can be welcome highlights in a senior's life.
For seniors seeking assisted living with pets in Roswell, GA, it's important to know what the community's policies are regarding pets. Not knowing what to expect could lead to frustration or difficulties adjusting. Some communities may:
Seniors should check with community directors to make sure that their pet meets the established requirements. Similarly, they should be comfortable with requirements like vaccinations or leash rules. Otherwise, it may be best to seek another living option.
Communities may regulate how many pets can be in a living space. Or they may not allow larger breeds of dogs. In any case, seniors should understand that rules are established to help all members of the community thrive.
In some scenarios, it may not be possible for a senior to have a pet in their apartment. Seniors may lack the physical capabilities to care for a pet. Or a senior living community may simply not allow pets.
Even for seniors needing an extra layer of care, pets can still be part of their lives. Some communities involve pets in memory care, for instance, to help reduce anxiety and encourage interactions. Pet therapy can be a positive force in senior communities, offering residents a chance to cuddle furry friends without an ongoing commitment.
Before moving to a senior community in Roswell, it's smart to look for signs that the campus is designed with pets in mind. A cramped property without much outdoor space wouldn't be a good fit for an active dog. The best senior communities will feature pet-friendly amenities, such as:
Dog-friendly retirement communities should be equipped with spacious walking paths and green spaces. When the weather is less conducive to being outside, it's important to have indoor opportunities for pets and their owners to mingle, too.
Seniors should seek communities where activities are designed to include pets, as well. Outdoor meetups or other social outings can be a great way to forge new friendships among pet lovers.
And the excuse to head outside can elevate a senior's physical and mental health. Ultimately, seniors should look for communities that tout their amenities and encourage pet owners to live there.
Emotional support animals for seniors will need some support of their own from time to time. That's why it's so important to confirm that animal clinics are close to the community. Seniors should connect with a local veterinarian in Roswell for regular pet wellness visits.
Aging with pets can be highly rewarding, but it's wise for seniors to be mindful of their limitations. The aging process can hinder mobility, making it harder to care for active pets. Seniors should:
Seniors should have friends and family willing to step in and help with pet care as needed, too. For seniors, physical needs shift as they age, and activities that used to be easy can become challenging. Seniors may need assistance making sure that their pet gets enough exercise or feeding them, for example.
Seniors should have a contingency plan in place, too, to keep their pet secure as their needs change. If a senior is unable to care for a pet at a certain point, they should have a backup caregiver ready to step in and help.
When seniors choose a pet-friendly assisted living community, they're investing in a brighter, happier future. Pets can provide unconditional love and a feeling of purpose for seniors who may be prone to feeling lonely. Seniors should prioritize finding a community with the amenities their pet needs and easy access to pet care.
At TerraBella Roswell, we offer exceptional senior living that can accommodate seniors' changing needs. Our updated apartment homes and impressive amenities, including chef-prepared meals, ensure that residents are the focus. Contact us today to schedule a tour!