For many older adults, pets are beloved companions — but they’re also much, much more. Not only do pets become true members of the family, but their presence can support wellness in a variety of ways. In fact, many senior living communities allow — even encourage — pets within the community because they recognize the positive impact pets have on residents’ mental and physical health.
Enjoying the many benefits of pet ownership while also embracing the convenience, support and connection of community living are sound reasons to seek pet-friendly senior living in Atlanta. It’s a well-rounded lifestyle that promotes independence, routine and joy as older adults move into the next chapter of life.
How Pets Promote Wellness for Seniors
People get pets for a variety of reasons, but companionship is one of the most common. For older adults, it’s an especially compelling reason, since loneliness is a common cause of depression among seniors.
But the benefits go beyond a cuddly couch companion who rewards you with affectionate tail wags or satisfied purrs. Pet owners reap numerous emotional, physical and social rewards. Some of the specific benefits of pets for seniors include:
Purpose: In retirement, you may find yourself longing for meaningful ways to stay active and engaged. Caring for a pet that relies on your attention naturally builds your sense of purpose and responsibility.
Routine: In a related vein, caring for a pet puts some structure into your day that creates predictability and reduces stress, while also offering a framework for healthy habits.
Physical Activity: While it’s most true for dog owners who need to walk their pooches, other kinds of pets can prompt their owners to stay active, too. Playing with and caring for a cat, and even maintaining a fish tank, can also involve physical activity. Studies have also shown that older adults with pets have stronger mobility and lower blood pressure.
Emotional Regulation: The steady presence of a beloved pet can actually calm your nerves when emotions are high or brighten your mood. The soothing, repetitive motion of stroking a pet’s soft coat can ease stress, while watching antics of a busy fish tank can provide a welcome mental distraction.
Socialization: Some of the best relationships are formed on the basis of common interests, and having a dog who needs walking ensures you’re out and about, engaging with others — including fellow pet parents in the community. Getting to know your neighbors, and their pets, is a great way to begin integrating yourself into the fabric of the community.
Security: Even small dogs and cats can offer a sense of security, since their very presence reduces feelings of isolation. What’s more, animals intuitively stick close when they sense their owner is feeling anxious, which can be a timely source of comfort.
It’s also worth noting that having a familiar pet join you when you move to a senior living community can provide great comfort during a time of significant change and transition.
What You Should Know About Pets and Senior Living
If you’re already a pet parent, or plan to add a pet to your household once you settle into retirement, exploring pet-friendly amenities is a priority when you’re comparing potential senior living communities.
Knowing a community allows pets is an obvious starting point, but learning more about the policies and amenities will help you determine whether the community is the right fit for you and your pet.
Policies
The first and most important consideration is the community’s policies regarding pets. Some offer broader parameters, while others stipulate what kinds of pets, how big they can be and, in the case of dogs, what breeds are allowed. Policies may also outline how many pets you can have and provide mandatory health guidelines.
Pet types: Dogs and cats are common choices, but some communities also allow other critters, like birds or fish tanks.
Size and Weight: It’s common for a senior living community that allows pets to set weight requirements, which helps ensure pets can be safely controlled by aging residents.
Breeds: In communities without size restrictions, aggressive breeds are typically discouraged or outright restricted, again for residents’ safety.
Number: Many communities ask residents to limit themselves to one pet, although some allow more.
Health: You can expect to provide proof of veterinary care, such as verifying your pet has been spayed or neutered and showing that they’re up to date on vaccinations.
Licensing: If your city or county has laws requiring pet registration or licensing, the community may ask to have a copy of that documentation on file.
Amenities
Senior living communities can also vary greatly in the amenities and resources they provide for pet parents. Some pet-friendly amenities and programs you might find are:
- Dog parks, where your pet can burn off some extra energy within a secure fenced enclosure
- Well-lit walking paths that provide a safe place for regular walks
- On-site grooming stations with senior-friendly features like raised tubs for convenient bathing
- Social activities and events designed with pet lovers in mind
- Pet-sitting services or a resident network to help care for your pet when you travel
- Partnerships with local vets or mobile vet visits
- Pet therapy programs that allow animal lovers without their own pets to reap some of the rewards companion animals offer
Financial Considerations
Senior living communities commonly welcome pets with a pet deposit (typically nonrefundable). Know that you may be asked to pay a monthly pet fee as well.
Pet-Friendly Independent Living in Atlanta
Finding a community that feels as welcoming to you as it does your beloved pet may be easier than you think. Pet-friendly Canterbury Court has been answering the needs of older adults in the Atlanta area for more than 60 years.
The Legacy Gardens, a signature feature of the community, is an inviting spot for leisurely walks and meeting fellow animal lovers. What’s more, the community offers a large outdoor dog park where pups can make new friends of their own.
Contact us to learn more about this community and explore the rewarding retirement lifestyle it offers for residents and their four-legged friends.