More and more assisted living facilities are welcoming pets along with people!
I personally think this is a great idea. Pets have such a positive effect on people — mentally, physically, and emotionally. A transition to an assisted living facility can be difficult; if a pet eases the way, I’m all for it. However, there are some drawbacks to allowing pets to live in a facility.
The cons of pets in assisted living:
- Staff members have to spend time and energy helping owners care for the pets.
- Pet food and health care is an additional financial burden on owners and families who are already paying to live in a facility.
- Owners who deteriorate too far may be unable to care for their pets at all, leaving care in the hands of other residents and staff.
I think the benefits of having pets in assisted living facilities far outweigh the drawbacks. Assisted living facilities all over are reporting the amazing positive impact of pets on the residents. Residents who are depressed or non-communicative are coming out of their shells when a cat or dog is nearby. Some pets can even sense when a person needs a little extra attention.
Studies have shown that pets can help reduce depression, relieve stress, and lower anxiety. In an assisted living situation for people with dementia and other chronic illnesses, pets can help re-engage an interest in everyday life and create opportunities to socialize. Pets can help ground a person whose mind is wandering away under the influence of Alzheimer’s disease.
I look at my grandmother as an example of that last one. When the dogs and I were still living with her, her interest in Moose and Lally bordered on obsession. Had the dogs eaten? Did they need to go out? Did they want a treat? Her day pretty much revolved around the dogs — it gave her a sense of purpose and direction.
One other drawback of pets in an assisted living: what happens to a pet whose owner passes away?
- The pet may find a new home with the previous owner’s family or friends.
- The assisted living staff may choose to adopt the pet.
- The pet may become a pet-in-residence at the facility.