About 66% of American households currently include pets, according to statistics published by the Zebra. To most people, these animals are part of the family. Over half of pet owners consider their four-legged companions just as much family as other humans are!
Older adults may be reluctant to transition to assisted living because they don't want to leave their beloved pets behind. Luckily, pet friendly senior living is available to those in the vibrant, vintage-loving Frisco, TX area.
Read on to learn some benefits of emotional support animals for seniors and what to expect from pets in assisted living!
Pets love their human companions more than anything. We offer them the same unconditional care that they give us. Because of this, a senior's wellness is important to the animals they care for.
Beyond that, however, the simple fact is that no one can care for another life without first caring for themselves. Poor hygiene makes people feel unclean and messy, and it can impact mental health to the point where seniors have no motivation to get out of bed. A lack of mobility also makes it nearly impossible to keep up with pets who need regular play.
At Parkview in Frisco, the best pet friendly senior living in Texas, we offer multiple communities for residents. You can choose between:
Choosing the appropriate community option with the help of compassionate caregivers means that residents are equipped to care for animals.
Those enjoying senior living with pets in Frisco senior living can expect a community with pet-friendly amenities. The top Texas community features comfortable apartments with open floor plans, perfect for animals to run around in. These apartments also sustain healthy pets because of their:
Beyond the apartment, community amenities for pets include:
This ensures that community-dwelling animals have the space they need to thrive.
Pets are a source of steady love and affection for their owners. They offer:
This is especially important for seniors, who are at a higher risk of social isolation.
The University of Michigan notes that 29% of people ages 50-80 are lonely, and isolation is a major risk factor for this. With a cat or dog by their side, older adults are less likely to feel lonely!
Animals in senior living also makes it easier for residents to foster connections with one another.
Everyone will jump at the opportunity to visit another resident's apartment to pet and interact with a cute kitty. Dog owners within the community can walk their furry friends together, which fosters daily interaction and close companionship.
Social connection with pets lowers stress. This can decrease seniors' chances of:
It also may stave off cognitive decline up to and including dementia. This makes pets especially important for those in memory care. It can slow the impacts of memory loss and disorientation.
Pets also have other physical health benefits. Walking dogs regularly helps older adults keep their muscles strong with consistent physical activity. This can decrease joint and bone pain while improving both flexibility and lung capacity.
Seniors who can't reliably walk daily may prefer cats. Having a cat also lends to exercise because kitties need regular play, too.
Waving a teaser or chasing a cat around the apartment is also a form of rousing physical exercise. It's perfect for older adults who already struggle with getting around!
Pets give seniors a reason to get out of bed in the morning. They don't just serve as furry alarm clocks. Knowing that a pet needs to be fed or played with is a motivator.
This gives seniors a sense of purpose. They'll be happier and less likely to develop depression or experience worsening anxiety.
Pets also need to be fed, groomed, and walked on a schedule. They also demand regular attention (that owners are always happy to give.)
This gives seniors a much-needed routine in their daily lives. They won't stumble through the day wondering what comes next. Instead, they'll have to be available and alert at set times to care for their animal companions.
Routine gives people a sense of control over their lives. It also boosts memory and critical thinking, so it can slow the impacts of cognitive decline.
There are a wide range of advantages to senior living with pets in Frisco TX, including consistent companionship and physical exercise. Now that you know what to expect from cat-friendly and dog-friendly retirement communities, it's time to plan for the transition of yourself or a loved one into a vibrant community.
Our pet friendly senior living community offers robust amenities for both animals and those who love them. We're committed to offering the best care in Texas to keep seniors mobile and happy, which ensures that they can give their pets the best possible care. Additionally, our personalized care plans ensure that all residents have their unique needs met.
Our compassionate team is excited to show you and your loved ones what we have to offer, so contact us today and schedule a tour of our community!