Age is a core risk factor contributing to isolation and loneliness. This contributes to both mental and physical health problems like depression, cognitive decline, and even early mortality.
Luckily, adopting and loving an animal can decrease the chances of these outcomes. Studies show that older adults with pets are 36% less likely to feel lonely than their pet-free counterparts.
Here, we'll discuss pet friendly senior living in the gorgeous, connected city of Broken Arrow, OK. Read on to learn what to expect in a senior living community that lets you bring a furry family member along.
Beyond decreasing loneliness and providing companionship in independent living, pets and their aging owners have special and irreplaceable bonds. Animals promote mindfulness and encourage seniors to live in the present. This decreases anxiety about the future and helps older adults feel calmer and more peaceful.
Beyond that, caring for a pet gives seniors an enhanced sense of purpose. As people age, they frequently feel as though they have fewer opportunities to contribute to their surroundings. This is partly because of social and emotional challenges that can lead to low self-worth.
Animals are loving, supportive, loyal presences. They require daily care and affection, which gives seniors a reason to get out of bed in the morning. Caring for a four-legged family member in pet friendly senior living is a great way for older adults to feel purpose-driven and happy.
Pets also help seniors establish a routine while in independent living with supportive services. Studies show that a healthy routine can improve mood and decrease instances of depression. Pets that need to be fed at specific times and experience routine engagement help seniors stay consistent with their daily activities.
Older adults don't just experience more emotional wellness when caring for animals. They also may nip cognitive decline in the bud or slow its development.
Harvard Health studies examined seniors who own pets vs those who lived alone. They found that pet owners have slower rates of cognitive decline than those who do not. In fact, seniors with pets had similar results to those who lived with another person!
Pets also boost physical activity levels in seniors. This is especially true of those with dogs who need to be walked daily.
However, cat owners also have higher physical activity levels than those who don't own pets. Cats need regular play, so their caregivers need to walk around with them and play with toys and teasers. Feeding a cat also requires seniors to stand up and get some light exercise.
On a deeper emotional level, pets are non-judgmental listeners for seniors. Older adults can talk to pets and treat them as silent confidants. They can tell them anything and experience a judgment-free safe space.
Ultimately, pets are good for holistic wellness. They decrease the risk of cognitive, physical, and mental health issues all at once!
Dogs and cats are the most common pets for people of all ages. They both have several advantages, including companionship and loyal love. Both cats and dogs are outgoing and affectionate.
Dogs are best for seniors who:
Having a dog also means maximizing physical activity with walks and outdoor play. You'll get some Vitamin D and meet other pet owners on community grounds!
You might prefer to get a cat if you:
Independent living residents who are worried about inflammation, joint pain, or chronic illness may also benefit from cat purrs. Research shows that the frequency and vibration of purrs may improve bone density and blood pressure in addition to decreasing stress.
Some seniors want a pet but lack the mobility needed to care for a cat or dog. Good alternatives may include:
Almost every type of pet is welcome at Morada Broken Arrow. This ensures that every senior can get the non-judgmental support of an animal companion.
Morada Broken Arrow offers both cat-friendly and dog-friendly housing. We offer several types of living spaces, including suites and apartment homes in a resort-style setting.
If you want some more space for yourself and your beloved pet, you can also choose a senior cottage specifically designed for our most autonomous residents. Many have patios and yards for cats and dogs to enjoy.
However, our community amenities also include supportive areas for pets. You can enjoy:
These provide supportive settings for animals and their owners.
Our Broken Arrow independent living community also offers supportive services. Pets will have clean, well-appointed apartments to run around in because of our housekeeping services.
Residents also will have their physical and emotional needs met with medical and therapeutic support. Because of this, you'll be in good enough shape to reliably care for your pet. You won't need to worry about being unable to care for them.
Now that you know the ins and outs of pet friendly senior living, it's time to enhance your senior lifestyle in Broken Arrow with an animal companion.
At Morada Broken Arrow, our team is committed to offering personalized senior living services to residents. Robust, individually-tailored support gives you the emotional and physical bandwidth to care for your pet's needs as you age. Plus, our well-appointed, spacious apartments ensure that animals have the space they need to thrive.
We're excited to show you our pet-friendly amenities and answer your most pressing questions about transitioning to a senior community. Contact us to schedule a tour and see what makes our Oklahoma community stand out!