There’s nothing quite like the feeling of being with your best friend when you arrive home – especially if they have paws. From fuzzy dogs to fluffy cats, owning a pet can breathe joy and purpose into everyday life in an exceptional way.
Unfortunately, not everyone lives in a pet-friendly environment which can make pet ownership a real challenge. Below, we will outline some of the best pets for seniors and a community where you can give them a wonderful life.
Benefits of Owning a Pet for Seniors
Pets make wonderful companions for seniors, offering comfort, routine, and even health benefits. Loneliness can be a challenge as we age, but a pet provides unconditional love and constant companionship, helping to reduce stress and combat feelings of isolation. Simply petting an animal can release endorphins, boosting mood and overall well-being.
Owning a pet also promotes an active lifestyle. Daily walks with a dog keep seniors moving, improving heart health, mobility, and energy levels. Plus, these walks create opportunities for social interaction, making it easier to connect with others.
Beyond physical health, pets provide structure and a sense of purpose. Caring for an animal establishes a daily routine, which can be especially beneficial for retirees looking to add more structure to their day. The responsibility of feeding, grooming, and caring for a pet can also enhance self-esteem and bring joy.
Studies have even shown that pets can lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and stress levels, contributing to a healthier heart. For seniors with cognitive impairments, the calming presence of a pet can reduce anxiety and improve quality of life.
Good Pets for Seniors
Just like no pet is the same, neither are any seniors! That’s why it’s important to look at factors such as lifestyle, activity level and level of independence before considering which type of pet to bring home.
Seniors with a highly active lifestyle could be an excellent fit for a dog. Your four-legged friend would love to accompany you on those long afternoon walks, on the deck while you BBQ (and even be your personal taste tester), or while out for a drive.
Finding the right dog requires looking at their energy levels and temperament as well. Consider the amount of time, energy and experience you have before bringing fido home. Remember, an older rescue dog may be a better fit than a young puppy as they are likely to already be house trained and you’ll generally know their personality when you first meet them.
Medium active lifestyles are still great candidates for certain dog breeds. In this category having a lower-energy means, you can still enjoy outdoor activities together that are necessary for their health and wellness without having to walk them up to three times a day.
If your lifestyle is in the low-activity range, then you could consider smaller pets that don’t necessarily require lots of work like rabbits, birds or fish. These types of animals are great companions that are easy to find pet care for should you wish to travel for a few days or even a few weeks.
All three lifestyles are great for cats, too. Cats are resilient, personality-packed pets that are low-maintenance companions for active lifestyles, too. They can give you the satisfaction of cuddling a furry friend, like you would a dog, without the maintenance that comes with them. For example, active seniors can have peace of mind taking a 1-2 day trip without worrying about extensive care for their cat. On the other hand, low-activity lifestyles can simply enjoy the companionship of having a cat around the house without a major exercise component.
Pet-Friendly Seniors Housing in Edmonton
Many people think downsizing means moving to a condo or retirement complex, but that’s not the only option. Adjusting to shared spaces can be a big change, especially for those who value independence – and finding pet-friendly properties in these settings can be tough.
That’s why Meadows of Morinville, just a short drive from Edmonton, could be the perfect fit. This exclusive, pet-friendly community features modern modular bungalows, allowing you to downsize while keeping what matters most. Enjoy a comfortable, independent lifestyle in a home that suits your needs, without sacrificing your beloved pets or personal space.
Our Community Pets
Some of our residents include active seniors who enjoy walking their dogs on Morinville’s largest trail (which we happen to back onto) or bringing their pooch for an afternoon picnic and fishing at Cardiff Park. Alternatively, some less active residents have found their home here and taking it slow on the deck, tending to their gardens, and meeting up with their neighbours in the on-site amenities area.
Meadows of Morinville has homes that suit your unique lifestyle – whatever that looks like for you! Visit our community at 34 Meadows Drive in Morinville, or call us at 780.572.0800 to learn more.