It was not that long ago that seniors
moving into an assisted living community had to leave behind an important
companion, their pet. Today however, more
and more retirement communities are recognizing the benefits of pets to the
elderly, and many such as MorningStar at Arrowhead, allow residents to bring
their pets with them.
There has been a lot of research that validates
the benefits of pets in seniors’ lives.
In fact, A Place for Mom website reports on a study that shows, “just 15
minutes bonding with an animal sets off a chemical chain reaction in the brain,
lowering levels of the fight-or-flight hormone cortisol and increasing
production of the feel-good hormone serotonin. The result: heart rate, blood
pressure and stress levels immediately drop.”
They go on to say that interactions between pets and humans can “lower
cholesterol levels, fight depression and may even help protect against heart
disease and stroke.”
Another reason pets can be good for
the elderly is that animals live in the here and now and do not think about
tomorrow, which for some seniors, can be worrisome. In addition animals offer unconditional love,
emotional support and affection. This is
one reason why pet therapy programs are used in convalescent homes, hospitals,
mental health centers and children centers.
Many people participating in such programs experience an improvement in
appetite as well as “more social interaction and tactile and cognitive
stimulation after interactions with pets.”
There is even research that indicates
pet therapy is beneficial for those suffering from dementia diseases such as
Sundowners Syndrome and Alzheimer’s. The
animal’s complete acceptance and non-verbal communication has proven to be
soothing for patients.
Please contact us to learn more about the
MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Arrowhead community. With beautifully appointed spaces and
exceptional architecture, we are confident you will be impressed.
MorningStar at Arrowhead represents the best in senior living with a
unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest.” We have built our foundation on honoring God,
valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve to create a
true home for residents amid a beautiful, serene setting. To experience
firsthand the finest senior living in the Phoenix area, contact us to schedule
a tour.
Sources: aplaceformom.com/senior-care-resources/articles/pet-friendly-assisted-living
agingcare.com/Articles/benefits-of-elderly-owning-pets-113294.htm
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