Perks of Pets for Older Population

Perks of Pets for Older Population

BY DARLA MAKELA

Statistics show that 74% of pet owners believe their mental health improved after getting a pet. Many sources cite one population that has benefited greatly from having close contact with pets: those in nursing homes and long-term care facilities.

Shari Rich is part of the Enrichment Activities Team at Birchwood Cottages in North Mankato. Birchwood Cottages’ mission is to serve those living with memory loss in an environment filled with compassion and purpose. Rich says they strive to make a positive impact on the lives of their residents. Sometimes that comes in the form of a pet.

“No matter who the individual is or their ability to communicate, a pet will bring smiles of joy to their face and their heart. Simply said, pets can enrich anyone’s life,” says Rich.

Rich sees this every day at Birchwood, where one resident in particular, demonstrates the power of pets.

“Rhoda, who lives at Birchwood Manor, lights up like a Christmas tree at the sight of one of the center’s canine visitors,” explains Rich. “Rhoda is 97 years young and loves to spend time with her family dog as well. Rhoda’s daughter Jeanie has observed her mother go from sadness to contentment and joy at the sight of their family dog, Thor. Petting Thor is therapeutic and relaxing, oftentimes lulling them both to sleep.”

Many places, like Birchwood, have the opportunity to use pet therapy to bring a smile to their residents’ faces. One of the most common benefits of pet therapy is reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation, which are common among older adults. Interactions with animals have also been found to lower blood pressure and reduce stress levels. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals who suffer from anxiety or depression. Overall, pet therapy is a valuable tool for improving the quality of life for nursing home residents.

David Lewis, Birchwood’s Executive Director confirms that pets are beneficial to helping his residents relax and feel at peace, decreasing their agitation.

“While it would be amazing to have the joy of a live-in pet in a nursing home or long-term care facility, I have found the second-best resource in therapy stuffed animals. Birchwood has several stuffed animals we use to comfort and calm residents who might be struggling with anxiety or loneliness. You can often see these residents snuggled up with an animal or stroking them as they would a real-life pet."

Rhoda’s story is a familiar one in area assisted living facilities, proving the power of companionship through pets can impact quality of life no matter the age.