Animal companions can be very beneficial for older adults, but there can be some problems accomplishing that in practice. This is especially true for older adults who are experiencing cognitive decline who cannot take care of an animal. But there are numerous ways older adults can enjoy companionship with animals.
Volunteering or Fostering
If you’re able, volunteering with an animal shelter can be very rewarding. You can walk dogs, cuddle with cats, help set up photoshoots with the adoptable animals to look their best on the shelter’s website, and more! Look into volunteering with your local humane society to learn about their specific programs. Fostering can be fulfilling as well, but it requires being pretty active and being able to bring a new animal into your home.
Therapy Dogs
Therapy dogs are becoming more common, and they are often employed by hospitals and even assisted living facilities. I’d look into if there are any therapy dog organizations near you and where they visit.
Having Animal Visitors
If you are able to, visiting older adults with your own dogs that they are familiar with can help them foster a relationship with an animal. I’ve met several older adults who are very happy with their grand-dogs or neighbor’s cat. Obviously, assisted living facilities may not allow you to bring animals over. However, you may be able to implement this if your loved one lives at home.
How have animal companions improved your life? Leave a comment below.
Written by Brigid Stakelum
