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Pets can play
an important role in our lives as we age. As we grow older, knowing
that you're loved, or that someone cares about you, isn't necessarily
enough, and that need to feel needed-and appreciated for what you
do-increases. Pets fulfill this need because they depend on their
owners for care and attention. In return, the pets offer love and
unqualified approval. Studies have been documented that petting a dog or cat lowers blood pressure in hypertensive patients and that older people show improved alertness when caring for a pet. Pets often seem to be especially valuable for some people experiencing major life chances, such as illness or the loss of a loved one. Depressions can often be avoided. Pets also encourage their owner to be more physically active by playing with them or taking them on a walk. Pets amuse us, make us laugh and improve our overall morale. Pet owners tend to remain more interested in events in their community and in their surroundings. They are not as lonely as perhaps they once were. They prevent or reduce absent-mindedness or bewilderment by communicating the sense of time and by maintaining a rhythm of the day. "forget oneself and ones problems" and to "live one's free time in a meaningful and interesting way".
Pets need love, companionship and attention no differently than the rest of us. If you know of an older adult that could use a friend, a companion, please consider contacting one of the adoption or fostering agencies below. Senior Pet Adoption and Fostering Agencies Adopt
a Senior Pet - Older
pets need love too. Adopt an older dog or cat. Senior pets still
have love to give! This non-profit Senior Pet Adoption service is
sponsored by the pet lovers at Purnia and Advantage II. Paws Companions - Seniors for Seniors - PAWS' Seniors for Seniors adoption program is all about senior humans rediscovering the joys of having a cat or dog in their lives. The program places senior cats and dogs (typically over 7 years of age) with senior citizens who are 60 years of age or older. The Silver Paws Program connects mature pet lovers with homeless mature pets. Part of AARF's overall foster program network, Silver Paws foster parents participate in foster orientations and trainings with other fosters, which can serve as an antidote to the isolation many mature adults face. The program covers the cost of veterinary care, food and supplies for the foster pets, alleviating the financial concerns that are common. Pet Food Assistance Programs For struggling pet owners, providing pet food can be the difference between being able to keep a cherished pet and being forced to surrender him or her. Below are some agencies that can help:
Some Meals on Wheels
progams provides assistance through their AniMeals Pet Food Program
offering food and care for the pets of their homebound clients.
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