Pets have long been recognized for their restorative and therapeutic effects on people. From lifting spirits to providing companionship and reducing loneliness, they can be invaluable sources of comfort and joy. However, not every senior can keep a pet at home or knows how to pursue pet therapy services. If you're a caregiver with senior loved ones under your care, plenty of avenues are available to help them experience the therapeutic benefits and joy of pet interaction.
What Is Pet Therapy?
Also known as Animal-Assisted Therapy, pet therapy involves using animals like dogs, cats, or birds to enhance an individual’s mental, physical, and emotional well-being. The interaction and connection formed with the animal can deliver numerous therapeutic benefits, especially for seniors. Beyond the feel-good factor, scientific studies have proven pet therapy helps reduce stress, lower blood pressure, increase social interaction, and even improve cognitive abilities.
1. Therapy Pet Visits
A therapy pet visit can be an excellent alternative for seniors who cannot keep a pet at home. Certified therapy animals, often dogs, will visit seniors in their homes or care facilities. The senior gets to interact with the animal, usually through play or petting, which can be a soothing and joyful experience.
2. Community Pet Programs
Community pet programs allow seniors to interact with animals in a community setting, facilitating social interaction and companionship. The Anti-Cruelty Society's Pets for the Elderly program in Chicago offers opportunities for older adults to adopt a pet at a reduced fee, providing them with a lasting bond and numerous health benefits.
3. Virtual Pet Therapy
While unconventional, virtual pet therapy for seniors is an emerging field. It’s a way for older adults to interact with animals remotely via video calls or online platforms. This can be particularly useful for seniors with health conditions that prevent them from leaving their homes or those who are uncomfortable around live animals. Virtual pet videos are available online for free, providing calming and entertaining content for seniors.
4. Pet Therapy at Senior Centers
Many senior centers recognize the benefits of pet therapy and have incorporated it into their services. These centers often host scheduled visits from therapy animals. It offers a communal interaction experience that can enhance social bonds among the residents.
5. Volunteering at Animal Shelters
Volunteering at an animal shelter can also offer a therapeutic environment for seniors. Senior volunteers can interact with the shelter animals. It also gives seniors a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Many shelters in Chicago, such as the PAWS Chicago, welcome senior volunteers and provide necessary training and support.
Senior Helpers Can Assist With Pet Care and More
Making pet therapy accessible for seniors can significantly enhance their quality of life, offering companionship and numerous mental and physical health benefits. As a caregiver, exploring these strategies allows your loved ones to interact with animals, even if they can't keep one at home.
If you can use some help at home caring for a senior loved, Senior Helpers North Side Chicago can help. Serving Chicago and nearby communities, we provide in-home senior care solutions tailored to your older loved one’s unique preferences and needs, from assistance with pet care and help with daily living activities to companionship and more. Contact us to learn more about our services!