Elderly Care & Animal Companionship (EXPERT)

Are you or your loved ones getting older and becoming isolated? Perhaps the idea of an animal as a companion may be just the thing. An animal offers so much more than companionship, but having a friend nearby can prevent loneliness and other health conce
s.

One might be forgiven to think that the advent of the communication technologies that exist would get rid of the loneliness from this world. Especially since getting in touch with a loved one is as easy and as fast as a couple of mouse clicks or phone taps.

Unfortunately, in many ways, this is not true.

Loneliness and Depression

Research has shown that loneliness and depression are quite prevalent across the world. However, one particular age group that is more affected by loneliness and a feeling of isolation is the senior citizens.

Retired senior citizens tend to lead isolated lives as many of their kin carry on with their lives. This situation leaves many of our senior citizens lacking human associations and connections that come with socializing.

No Longer Isolated

Such isolation is a well-documented disease causing risk factor for older people. The resulting loneliness makes the individuals susceptible to suffering minor health and in worse case scenarios, major health complications such as coronary diseases.

One of the best ways to deal with loneliness among the elderly is introducing an animal pet in their lives through pet therapy.

Pet Therapy and Companion Animals

By providing companionship, the animals (which in many cases are cats and dogs) help to improve one’s cognitive, social and emotional well-being and functioning. The overall effect is that the individual’s quality of life improves tremendously.