How Pets Enhance Life in Independent Living

It is estimated that over 50% of seniors own pets, and considering all the incredible benefits companion animals can offer older adults, that should be no wonder.

Companion dogs for seniors can help older adults feel less lonely, exercise more, meet new people, and so much more. Learn about all the benefits of cats, birds, fish, and dogs for the elderly in this guide.

Benefits of Pet Companionship for Seniors

Owning a pet can give anyone a new purpose in life. Yet, the benefits of pet ownership are even more robust for older adults feeling lonely or dealing with health issues. Here's why.

Feel Less Lonely

Anyone who has ever owned a pet knows they aren't "just animals." Pets are family. They provide unconditional love and emotional support, which may be why older adults with pets report feeling 36% less lonely.

Improve Your Health

Older adults suffering from chronic pain can find relief with the help of a companion animal. Research shows that pets can help distract seniors from painful symptoms and even improve their ability to cope with pain.

Get More Exercise

Physical activity is crucial as we age, helping to strengthen muscles and support bone health. Older adults struggling to get enough exercise should consider getting a dog, as 78% of dog owners say their pet helps them stay fit.

Meet New People

Having a pet doesn't just make you feel less lonely because they are the perfect companions. They can also help older adults meet new people. In fact, pet owners are more likely to meet and befriend people in their communities.

Ideal Pets for Older Adults

There are so many varieties of pets that it can be hard to know which are best for seniors. We've made it easy with this list of the best senior-friendly pets.

Dogs

Dogs are the most popular pets in the US for a reason. They are loyal, loving, playful, protective, and easy to train. At the same time, some dog breeds require frequent exercise, which may not be ideal for some seniors.

Cats

Not a dog person? No worries because cats can be even better pets for some seniors. They are independent and less demanding than their canine counterparts, perfect for older adults needing a low-maintenance companion.

Fish

Fish and the aqueous environments they live in can be therapeutic. Plus, fish are so low-maintenance that almost anyone can own them successfully. The only responsibility fish owners have is feeding and cleaning the tank regularly.

Birds

Birds are talkative, beautiful creatures that can fill older adults' homes with music. They are not as high-maintenance as dogs, only needing daily feeding and regular cage cleanings to thrive and live a long life.

The Best Companion Dogs for Seniors

What are the best dog breeds for seniors? Here are five to consider.

Boston and Yorkshire Terriers

Both breeds of terriers are small dogs with tons of personality. They are easy to groom and don't require much exercise. Choose a Yorkie for a more energetic pet and a Boston terrier for a sweeter, gentler companion.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels

A Cavalier King Charles is a smaller spaniel breed with a beautiful face and long, glossy hair. With all that hair, these dogs are a bit more demanding in the grooming department, but they make up for it by being sweet and easy to train.

English and French Bulldogs

English and French bulldogs are medium-sized dogs, though Frenchies are generally lighter and smaller than their English cousins. Both have shy, quiet personalities and low exercise and moderate grooming needs.

The Best Cat Breeds for Seniors

Looking for the best cat breeds for your loved one? Check out our list below for three fan favorites.

American Shorthairs

American shorthairs are easy-going, playful cats that love the company of others. This breed is low-maintenance but loves to cuddle, making it an excellent companion for seniors with low mobility.

Ragdolls

Ragdolls are smart, calm, and friendly cats. They attach easily to their pet parents and follow their loved ones wherever they go. Even though Ragdolls have long hair, their grooming needs are relatively mild.

Siberians

Siberians are as intelligent as Ragdolls but far more independent. They are excellent therapy pets since they form close bonds with their humans and can grow to over 15 pounds when fully mature.

The Best Fish for Seniors

Need a super low-maintenance pet companion? Try one of the following three types of fish.

Betta

With their long, flowing tails, Betta fish are beautiful and come in many colorful varieties. They are also relatively clean fish, meaning they don't require frequent tank cleanings.

Dwarf Pufferfish

Dwarf pufferfish are small, green fish that thrive in groups of five or six. Like Betta fish, their tanks are easier to maintain. Just ensure you give these cute fish plenty of space and room to hide.

Goldfish

Goldfish are one of the most common fish species kept as pets because they are easy to care for and pretty to look at. Unlike Dwarf pufferfish, they do not need to live in a colony, preferring to live alone.

The Best Birds for Seniors

Want a home full of beautiful birdsong? These three birds are ideal companions for seniors.

Canaries

Canaries are small, yellow-green avians. They are friendly birds but don't mind staying in their cages permanently. They also sing softer, more relaxing songs than many pet birds.

Cockatiels

Cockatiels require a few hours outside of their cages per day. However, they make up for it with their mimicking songs, which they learn from everyday sounds around the home.

Parakeets

Parakeets are types of parrots and can be taught to speak and perform tricks. The only downside to these fun and friendly pet birds is that they need at least an hour of out-of-cage time per day.

Come Home to Our Pet-Friendly Community

Owning a pet can improve older adults' lives. If you want to feel less lonely and boost your health, companion dogs for seniors or any of the other pets on this list may be exactly what you need.

Are you searching for an independent living community near you? Columbus Estates offers all the amenities seniors need to thrive, including pet-friendly policies.