Baby boomers are retiring in numbers unseen in previous generations, and many wonder if a pet would be a suitable commitment in their golden years. Many seniors welcome the companionship a pet can provide, but some worry about the ability to care for a cat or dog as their health declines. What are some factors to consider?
Pros and cons
Studies have uncovered multiple benefits for seniors who live with pets. They visit medical providers less frequently and have lower levels of cholesterol and blood pressure than seniors who don’t own pets, reports Pet Partners, which pairs therapy animal teams with seniors, veterans, disabled persons and others. And pets, especially dogs, typically motivate seniors to socialize more and get involved in activities outside the home.
Pets aren’t for everyone, however. While some seniors crave the companionship a dog or cat can provide, they may worry about deteriorating health or the possibility of outliving a pet, as the Bucyrus Telegraph-Forum notes. In addition, some senior living communities don’t accept pets, and a tight budget may be an issue. Some seniors simply want a break after having pets for many years.
Alternatives to pet ownership
While senior technology can’t take the place of a fluffy, four-footed companion, it can help ward off feelings of isolation that can lead to both mental and physical health problems. Anyone who can use a TV and remote can easily use IndependaTVe™, which allows loved ones to check in frequently using their computers or the convenient mobile app on their
smartphones or tablets (check to see if the app is optimized fro tablets).
The userfriendly Angela interface also helps and encourages seniors keep in touch with children and grandchildren through video chat.
Minimizing isolation: The key to wellbeing
For many seniors, owning a pet is one way to ward off feelings of loneliness and isolation, socialize and stay active. Senior technology like IndependaTVe™ also keeps seniors engaged and focused on their wellbeing with tools like video chat.
