June 19, 2007

Survey Says … Pets May Help Seniors Stay Sharp and Fit

Getting old usually meant being on your own in a nursing home or being retired whiling your time away in apartment living. Today, with the growing number of abandoned pets up for adoption, senior citizens are doing their part in saving these dogs.

Retirement aged citizens who have pets (rescued or not) participated in a study that resulted to a better perspective on how a pet can help older people.

Pet owning brings out the ability to be attentive to details which entail recollection. Vet visits need to be remembered, shots listed down, what the dog ate before barfing, remembering to muzzle the dog on walks or when the pet last ate. These are examples of how a person's memory is exercised and routine broken.

For senior citizens with emotional burdens, having a pet makes up a lot for lost time they have succumbed to depression. With their pet's requirements for walks or trips to the vet, socialization is introduced in their schedule.

Pet dogs are considered a fountain of youth- of the furry kind. During the study, respondents mentioned a significant increase in physical activity with less aches and pains. Several respondents have noted weight loss to a healthier range.

To sum it all up, all agreed that their pets have made them grasp the concept of happiness despite of the limitations being of old age sets for them.

Filed under Blog by Megan M.