In recent times, the idea of having a pet friendly apartment for your senior citizens has become quite popular. People want to bring their pets to their new homes, which opens the door to pet friendly apartments in many retirement communities. This is because people who live alone often find it difficult to take care of themselves even if they have all their faculties in place. After all, a pet is one of the most precious things you have, especially if you’ve taken care of yours for a long time. Here are some benefits of moving into pet friendly apartments:
Pets Are Great Company
It’s no secret that pets can be a great form of companionship for retirees. Pets provide a sense of security, and they’re also excellent sources of companionship. In fact, some studies have indicated that pet owners tend to live longer than those who don’t own pets.
That’s not all: pets can even help seniors with dementia! The American Kennel Club reports that owning a dog or cat has been shown to reduce stress levels, improve moods and increase overall happiness in elderly individuals (and let’s face it—we could all use more happiness in our lives).
Pets Help Improve Mental Health
Pets are also a great way for seniors to get out of the house and interact with other people. Pets can assist in reducing stress and depression, as well as helping them feel less lonely, isolated, and depressed.
Pets Help Seniors Stay Active
While walking a dog is a great form of exercise, it can also be a good way to get fresh air and enjoy the outdoors. Research has shown that this kind of activity can help improve sleep patterns, reduce stress and anxiety, improve moods, and even reduce pain from arthritis or other physical ailments.
Pets Reduces Stress and Anxiety Levels
Many seniors struggle with loneliness and isolation. Pets can help mitigate this by reducing stress and anxiety levels, lowering blood pressure, improving depression symptoms and increasing feelings of companionship. In addition to these mental health benefits, studies have shown that owning a dog is associated with reduced risk of heart disease in women (and men) over the age of 40.
They Help Increase Life Expectancy
Pets are a great source of companionship, and they can help you live longer. Pets provide a sense of security and unconditional love that can improve your mental health, which in turn helps you to live a longer and happier life. Pets can also act as an exercise partner, making it easier for you to stay active by taking walks together. If you don’t have time for vigorous exercise, getting up on occasion to let your dog outside will be enough activity to increase the length of your lifespan.
Pet Friendly Apartments Are Key to a Good Retirement
Though pet friendly apartments are not the only option for seniors looking for retirement homes, they provide a great place to start. As we’ve seen, there are many benefits of living in such an apartment complex and it’s worth considering if you’re looking for one. For more information on our community and to see if our floor plans are suitable for you and your pet, contact us today!