The Benefits Of Pet Ownership

Retirement is a time of rest and relaxation, and for many retirees, this new time may induce a sense of freedom and a need for something new. One of the best ways to fill this newfound time is by adopting a pet. No matter the type of animal you desire, pets offer numerous benefits to other adults. Whether you adopt a pet to upkeep your physical or mental health, the companionship you gain from a new pet is going to improve the quality of your retirement. Here are some benefits to having a pet in your retirement, and some of the best options suited for seniors. 

Health Benefits

One of the most important parts of maintaining good health in retirement is keeping an active lifestyle. Pets require frequent assistance and care, ensuring you are staying mobile and fit. Dog owners, for example, are often more physically active due to taking their dogs on regular walks. Activities like these can help seniors maintain their heart health, retain muscle capacity, and improve their mobility. Even caring for animals such as cats or birds still promotes activity. Tasks such as cleaning litter boxes or cages, feeding, and grooming can all keep you moving and your muscles in good condition. 

Companionship

Retirement can stir up some new feelings for older adults, such as feelings of loneliness, isolation, and even depression. This can be especially difficult for those who were used to being extremely social in their work environment. Having a pet can offer a new companionship, which may ease feelings of loneliness or depression. Pets can also provide emotional support, creating a bond with their owner and creating a sense of purpose and fulfillment, which they may have lost when they started their retirement journey. Adopting a pet gives the retiree a new sense of responsibility, and gives them the opportunity to have the authority to pick out their new companion for their journey. 

Routing and Structure

For some, the freedom of retirement is liberating, for others, it can lead to a lack of structure and routine in their lives. Having a pet helps establish a daily routine to follow. This includes tasks such as walking, feeding, changing materials, and general care. Having daily tasks like these can help retirees feel more organized and able to see what they are accomplishing daily. Having a consistent routine is especially important in retirement to help preserve cognitive function with aging. Having and caring for pets can help maintain and even improve cognitive function, as well as reduce feelings of anxiety for those who struggle with memory issues. This care and companionship of an animal can help seniors improve both their mood and mental clarity, providing them a calm and natural way to stay engaged in their life. 

Social Interactions

Another benefit of having a pet is the increase in social interactions, especially for dog owners. People who own dogs often meet others at parks, on walks, at the pet store, or in places they can bring their pets along with them. This can help retirees build new friendships and find a stronger sense of community. Having a pet with you can also help in situations where communication and socialization may be a little more difficult, such as during an illness or a disability. One thing pets can also do is help family members connect with each other more. Having an additional companion in your home encourages others to come visit, and if they have a pet as well it provides extra enrichment for your pet. 

Choosing The Right Pet

Not all pets are suitable for the life of a retiree, so it’s imperative that you choose a pet that goes along with your lifestyle, living space, and your physical abilities. Some of the best pet options for older adults are dogs, cats, and birds. 

Dogs can be some of the most loyal companions to their owners, offering unconditional love and affection. Having a dog can provide both emotional support and motivation for consistent physical activity. However, not all dogs have the same temperament and needs, so finding one that suits your retirement lifestyle is important. For the seniors who love to stay active and spend time outdoors, a more social, active dog would fit into your lives. If a senior has a more limited mobility range, a smaller or less energetic dog may be a great choice. Dogs with these temperaments typically require less exercise and are calmer. Senior dogs are also a great choice for retirees. Many senior dogs are often overlooked when searching for a companion, although they offer low-maintenance living and a lot of love. Many of them are gentle and relaxed, and love to be near their owner. 

For the senior who wants a companion but not the added responsibility of a dog, a cat may be the perfect option. Cats are more independent than dogs, making them perfect for the retirees who would just like to have another being in the house that they don’t need to constantly monitor. Although independent, cats still have no problem showing affection, and their purring can even calm down the minds of seniors. These companions are especially good for retirees who live in smaller homes or apartments. 

For the retiree who wants more of a unique animal, birds such as parakeets or cockatiels can be an excellent option. Birds such as these are social and highly intelligent, and they are able to form strong bonds with their owners. Raising and training birds can help keep seniors sharp mentally, and help them stay physically stimulated as well, as they are often playing with toys. 

Incorporating a pet into your new lifestyle can bring numerous benefits to your retirement, from physical benefits to emotional and mental well-being. This new sense of routine and unconditional love provided by a pet is incredibly valuable during the later years of life. No matter the type of pet desired, there are many amazing options available for seniors, each with its own advantages to the retirement lifestyle.