The prevalence of pet ownership peaks in mid-life, with nearly 70% of Americans aged 50 to 59 owning a pet, according to the National Library of Medicine. The majority of these pet owners view their pets as part of the family. If you have a pet, consider moving into pet friendly assisted living.
Your furry friend's companionship can benefit your emotional, mental, and physical health. On the fence about aging with pets in Sheboygan, WI? Read on to discover how they can enhance your golden years today!
Stress and burnout rates are on the rise, according to UC Davis Health. Pet companionship could enhance your mental and emotional health. Emotional support animals provide love and companionship, which may help:
Seniors who maintain strong emotional connections with their pets report lower depression rates. A pet's ongoing social and emotional support may improve your mood and outlook on life.
According to The American Institute of Stress, nearly 45% of seniors aged 50 to 80 report feeling stressed. About 56% of these seniors say their pet is an ongoing source of joy. Choosing cat- or dog-friendly housing may reduce feelings of stress, which can benefit your overall health.
Chronic stress can cause inflammation, which is a component of chronic diseases, including:
The next time you feel stressed, pet your furry companion. Stroking their fur may increase oxytocin production. This can lower your stress and blood pressure.
Explore your senior living community's events and activities calendar for more relaxation methods. You can join a yoga class or hike with your dog to reduce stress and anxiety.
According to the National Poll on Healthy Aging, 37% of seniors feel a lack of companionship. Another 34% feel isolated. This feeling is more common in seniors who reported fair or poor mental health.
Chronic loneliness could affect:
Engaging in meaningful activities with other seniors could improve your health and longevity. Consider exploring your senior living community's wellness program. You can find fun, engaging activities to enjoy alongside your pet and other residents.
Your pet can act as an icebreaker as you meet seniors in Sheboygan. You can connect with other seniors, which may improve your:
If you don't have a pet, explore your Sheboygan senior living community's events calendar. They may offer pet visits and animal therapy sessions, which can help combat feelings of loneliness. Other potential benefits of animal-assisted therapy include:
Compared with their solitary peers, seniors who live alone but have pets experience fewer memory problems. According to the Fisher Center for Alzheimer's Research Foundation, having a pet is associated with a lower decline in:
Having a pet could help mitigate loneliness, which is associated with an increased risk for Alzheimer's disease. Older adults who report feeling lonely have triple the risk of developing forms of dementia than their peers. Aging with pets may help reduce your risk of cognitive decline.
Having a dog may lead you to exercise more often. Regular physical activity could further reduce your risk of Alzheimer's disease.
According to a study on pet ownership and cognitive health, aging with pets may reduce a person's brain age by up to 15 years. Your pet's presence may protect you from age-related mental decline.
According to the American Heart Association, dog owners are 34% more likely to walk 150 minutes a week than non-owners. Pet companionship can help you remain physically active, which may help:
Regular exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight. This may reduce your risk of health conditions like:
To stay physically active, explore your senior living community's fitness program. You can join a pet-friendly walking or hiking group, which can:
Choosing between pet-friendly Sheboygan senior living options can enhance your overall lifestyle. Aging with pets can:
Moving into a senior living community can give your life structure. Following a routine can encourage feelings of stability and happiness. Your pet will appreciate regular walks, socializing with new friends, and spending time outside.
Explore your senior living community's exclusive lifestyle programs. You can discover fun, engaging ways to enhance your current routine.
A pet's ongoing presence can improve your mood, which may enhance your outlook on life. Maintaining a positive outlook can improve your mental and physical health.
To recap, what are the benefits of pet friendly assisted living in Sheboygan, WI? Aging with pets can improve your mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Their ongoing presence may encourage you to socialize, which can further improve your mood, health, and quality of life.
Look no further for cat- and dog-friendly housing than LakeHouse Sheboygan. We ensure residents receive compassionate care in a pet-friendly community.
Enjoy our variety of floor plans and apartment sizes, fun and engaging amenities, chef-prepared meals, and compassionate staff. Contact us now to schedule your tour.