Thursday, June 15, 2017

Bring Your Pet to MorningStar


At MorningStar Senior Living of Sparks, we understand that your pet is an important part of your family and you would not wish to move somewhere that he or she was not welcome.  If you decide to choose our beautiful senior living community for your new home, no worries – we are pet friendly!  In fact MorningStar of Sparks is happy to have an adorable Golden Doodle as a part of our family.  Willow came to us as a puppy and recently celebrated her second birthday with a “surprise party” including a special cake from a pet bakery. 

More and more research seems to bear out that owning and caring for a pet can actually be good for seniors’ health and wellbeing.  One such recent study reported on by A Place for Mom’s website suggests that, “just 15 minutes bonding with an animal sets off a chemical chain reaction in the brain, lowering levels of the fight-or-flight hormone cortisol and increasing production of the feel-good hormone serotonin. The result: heart rate, blood pressure and stress levels immediately drop.”   

Researchers found that interactions between pets and their owners can help to fight off depression and lower cholesterol levels.  There is even some evidence to suggest the relationship may help to protect against heart disease and stroke.  Scientists’ reason that pets may help the elderly to feel more connected to the here and now as the pet requires daily attention and care.  Furthermore, the animals themselves offer unconditional love, unending affection and emotional support. 

Pet therapy programs are growing in popularity and used in settings such as hospitals, mental health centers, convalescent homes and child centers.  Studies show that many people who participate in pet therapy programs have an improvement in their appetite as well as improvement in their social interactions and cognitive skills.  In addition the acceptance and non-verbal communication of animals can be soothing for those with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia.   

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: aplaceformom.com/senior-care-resources/articles/pet-friendly-assisted-living   
agingcare.com/Articles/benefits-of-elderly-owning-pets-113294.htm

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