It was not that long ago that seniors
moving into an assisted living or memory
care community had to leave behind an important
companion, their pet. Today however, more
and more communities are recognizing the benefits of pets to the elderly, and
many such as MorningStar at Bear Creek, 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 also 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 visit our website to learn more
about MorningStar
Memory Care at Bear Creek.
But to really see our heart, we encourage you to schedule a visit and
see for yourself the warm and inviting atmosphere found at MorningStar.
MorningStar at Bear Creek is a memory
care community that uses progressive methods to palliate symptoms and revive
joy. Our foundation is built on honoring
God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt
calling to serve, and is devoted to creating a true home for residents within a
serene setting. Please contact us to schedule
a visit to experience firsthand our loving community.
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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