Despite hundreds of academic studies highlighting the benefits and drawbacks of pet ownership among older adults, elder care experts remain undecided on whether or not an animal companion has an overall positive or negative impact on quality of life.

The net benefits and challenges of pet ownership often boil down to a case-by-case basis depending on the mental and physical health of the pet owner, the type of pet they keep, and the individual’s unique living situation. 

If you or a loved one are considering bringing a pet into your life, consider the following.

Benefits of pet ownership for older adults

1. Companionship: Social isolation is a considerable hazard for older adults, but a pet ensures a friendly face is always home.
2. Purpose: Caring for an animal can give an older adult a reason to maintain a schedule and provide a sense of purpose. Some older adults report taking better care of themselves so they are physically capable of providing care for their pet.
3. Increased social interaction: Walking a dog, visiting the pet store or vet’s office, and even participating in online discussions of pets are all opportunities to spark interactions with other humans.

Challenges of pet ownership for older adults

1. Physical demands: Carrying heavy bags of food and going on walks in poor weather can present challenges for those with limited mobility or strength. Some grooming and pet care tasks require fine motor skills that might prove challenging.
2. Fall hazards: Most pet items like beds and toys occupy floor space, potentially increasing chances of clutter. The pet themself can lead to falls if their owner accidentally steps on them or trips over them while moving through the home.
3. Finances: Pets can be expensive investments, particularly for those on fixed or limited income. In addition to food and toys, it is important to understand what medical care will cost over the course of a pet’s life.

Picking the right pet

Different types of pets require different levels of attention and activity to thrive. Consider the following when looking for the right pet.

1. Physical ability and energy: If mobility is an issue, lower-maintenance pets like a cat, bird, gerbil, or fish might make for a good companion. An older adult who likes to stay active may benefit from a pet that requires consistent walks and play, like a dog.
2. Temperament and age: Puppies and kittens are adorable, but often require much more attention and training than an older pet. Most pet owners try to adopt pets at a young age, leaving countless older pets waiting for a home, but potentially giving an older adult the perfect companion.
3. Expenses and long-term planning: Different animals have different needs in terms of food and medical care and thus cost different amounts to properly maintain. Researching expected costs and pet insurance policies are critical steps to ensuring both pet and owner remain safe and healthy.

Long term planning and pet care

Bringing a pet home can feel like a wonderful idea when you are healthy and independent, but caring for a pet is a long-term commitment. When considering a pet, also consider how you can guarantee your companion a good life even if you are facing challenges of your own.

1. Find a backup caregiver: When looking for a pet, be sure to find a trusted friend or relative who can stand in as the primary pet caregiver should you become unable to perform daily pet care activities.
2. Simplify daily care: Automated food and water dispensers, as well as automated litterboxes are becoming increasingly simple and inexpensive. These tools can greatly reduce the daily strain of pet care activities and improve quality of life for both a pet and its person.
3. Build a good vet relationship:  Before bringing a pet home, reach out to your local veterinary clinics. In addition to getting a sense of annual healthcare costs, try to find a vet you feel you can trust who also provides in-home services. Having a vet that can travel to your home ensures your pet remains healthy even if your ability to travel has decreased.

Pet ownership and in home care

As we age, our ability to perform daily tasks like meal preparation, travel, cleaning, bathing, and pet care can change, and long term care solutions like home health care are increasingly common.

When thinking about your own long-term care, it is critical to consider the long-term needs of your pet as well. Many home caregivers are happy to help their client care for a pet, but that is not a universal truth, so discussing pet care options with your future home health care provider is critical.

Many home health care agencies will work with the client to find caregivers who can assist with pet care tasks like going on walks and vet appointments, bringing home pet supplies, preparing meals, and grooming, but communicating these needs is key.

To learn more about how we help, call SelectCare, read testimonials from past and current SelectCare clients, or request a free in-home health care guide today.