Friday, June 24, 2016

The Benefits of Pet Ownership

Research continues to show a strong correlation between pet ownership and a number of benefits to seniors.  Everything from helping the elderly to stay physically active, to lowering blood pressure, reducing stress, providing companionship and making depression less likely are attributed to having a pet.  In fact there are several studies that indicate that patients with heart problems do better when they are responsible for a pet.
Not only do pets offer lots of affection and unconditional love but they can also help seniors cope with the loss of a loved one.  In an article from AgingCare.com, a New Jersey psychotherapist, Dr. Jay P. Granat, discusses some of the other intangibles that pets offer to the elderly.  He states that, "Dogs—and other pets—live very much in the here and now. They don't worry about tomorrow. And tomorrow can be very scary for an older person. By having an animal with that sense of now, it tends to rub off on people."
At MorningStar Senior Living ofSparks, we wholeheartedly agree that pets provide many benefits to seniors, which is why we are proud that our community is pet friendly.  Along with our residents’ pets, we also have a couple of special “house pets” that provide companionship and warmth throughout our entire community. 
Willow, an adorable Golden Doodle, is a gentle, loving dog who is a big hit with all of our residents and staff.  Additionally we recently welcomed Paradise, a Senegal parrot, into our family.  Senegal parrots are renowned for their calm, quiet disposition along with their intelligence and ability to learn complex tricks.  At just three months old, Paradise is already fully grown, and is content to spend the day perched upon any willing shoulder. 
MorningStar of Sparks’ unique mission statement “to honor, to serve, to invest” sets us apart from other senior communities.  Committed to creating a true home for residents within a gorgeous setting, our foundation is built on honoring God, valuing our seniors and hiring staff with a felt calling to serve.  We invite you to schedule a visit to learn more about our exceptional senior living.
Sources:petsfortheelderly.org/articles.html
agingcare.com/Articles/benefits-of-elderly-owning-pets-113294.htm

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