Seniors and Pets: The Pros and Cons
Donna Nichols • December 23, 2020
Seniors and Pets: The Pros & Cons
Do seniors need pets?
Some say yes, others say no. Some believe the seniors can’t take care of themselves so how are they going to take care of a pet?
Others believe the pet gives the senior purpose.
Which side are you on?
Let’s look at some pros and cons of seniors having pets.
Pros of Seniors having a Pet:
- A pet can reduce isolation by providing companionship to the senior. So, if you can’t be there, at least they don’t feel as if they’re alone
- A pet can give the senior a sense of purpose . They won’t feel as if they don’t matter, they have someone to care for, someone who depends on them and needs them. Your mom or dad took care of you and or siblings for so long and now they have no one to care for anymore.
- A pet can be extremely satisfying and make them feel useful again .
- A pet can ensure the senior gets regular exercise , especially if they have a dog. They will need to walk the dog routinely and thus give them exercise and get them out into the world. Vitamin D is one vitamin many seniors lack because they tend to stay indoors.
- A pet can provide the senior with a routine . They will need to feed the animal at approximately the same time each day, which adds structure to their life.
If they have a dog, it’s a great way to meet new friends and peak new interests
. Dogs are great icebreakers and conversation starters. As far as peaking new interests, the senior might be inclined to clean up the dog walking area, or perhaps take the friendly pet to the senior center or hospital to spread cheer to others.- A dog can provide a sense of protection . Even a small dog barking can deter a burglar.
- A pet can help lower stress in seniors. Perhaps because of the companionship, or maybe because they have someone to talk to, love and care for again. Could it be the structure or constancy pets add to the senior’s life?
- Petting a dog or cat can reduce stress. It acts as a relaxing mechanism in our brain and body and while we pet the animal we talk to them as well which helps ease our stress level.
- Dogs and cats can help the senior cope , especially after an illness or surgery. They are specifically keen and can pick up on their owner’s discomfort and will be supportive of their comfort needs.
Petting a dog or a cat can reduce stress.
Now, let’s talk about some cons:
If you get a puppy, you may not have the stamina or the energy to “keep up” with the puppy.
Also, if you have a pet that requires a cage cleaning, make sure you are physically able to clean the cage regularly.
Ensure you are able to put everything into pet ownership that comes with it.
Time, money, energy, the daily care, veterinary visits, food, and attention.
If you have a dog, cat, or bird make sure you have a plan for the animal should they outlive you or you move into an assisted living community.
You don’t want the constant stressor of what will happen to your pet if something happens to you.
So, should you get a pet?
Ultimately, the decision is yours, but if you look closely, the pros outweigh the cons . Adopting a pet from a shelter is a great way to get a pet. Not only will the seniors have a companion, but they will also be helping save the life of an animal.
This can provide the senior with an amazing sense of purpose, and because they feel responsible for the animal’s life, they are more likely to take better care of their life.
If you need help or encouragement as a Caregiver give us a call at 386-847-2322
or check out our Caregiver Support Group. Our Senior Advisors
are here to walk with you through this journey.
Florida's paradise of sun-kissed beaches, vibrant culture, and tropical beauty—is also home to one of the most intense annual weather phenomena: hurricane season. From June 1 to November 30, Floridians remain on high alert as powerful storms brew in the Atlantic, each potentially bringing torrential rain, fierce winds, and coastal surges. Understanding hurricane season is crucial for residents and visitors, as it ensures safety and preparedness in the face of nature’s fury. The Impact on Florida Florida has experienced some of the most destructive hurricanes in history, including Andrew (1992), Irma (2017), Ian (2022), Debby, Helene, and Milton (2024). These storms left behind immense devastation, flooding homes, severing power lines, and reshaping entire communities. The economic toll of hurricanes is staggering, affecting local businesses, tourism, and infrastructure. Coastal regions, particularly the Florida Keys and areas along the Gulf Coast, often face the most significant risk. However, inland areas are not immune—wind damage and flooding can wreak havoc miles from the shoreline. Preparing for Hurricane Season Being prepared is the best defense against hurricanes. Here’s how Floridians can safeguard themselves: Stay Informed : Monitor local weather reports and emergency alerts. The National Hurricane Center provides real-time tracking and updates. Create an Emergency Kit : Stock up on essentials, including water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, and extra batteries. Don’t forget important documents and pet supplies! Have a Plan : Know evacuation routes and shelter locations. Discuss emergency plans with family members and establish a safe meeting point. Secure Your Home : Reinforce windows, clear debris from your yard, and consider investing in storm shutters if possible. Hurricane season is a reality in Florida, but with preparation and awareness, residents can confidently weather the storm. Whether you’re a lifelong Floridian or a visitor experiencing the Sunshine State, staying informed and ready is key. Stay safe, stay prepared, and remember—storms may come, but resilience keeps Florida strong.
Hurricane season in Florida, running from June to November, is a time for preparation, not panic. While these storms bring powerful winds, heavy rain, and potential flooding, a well-thought-out plan can make all the difference—especially for seniors. Taking proactive steps ensures safety, comfort, and peace of mind when the storm arrives. Let’s explore how you can best prepare, stay safe, and recover after the storm. For seniors, hurricanes present unique challenges. Mobility concerns may make evacuation difficult, medical needs require careful planning, and power outages can disrupt essential healthcare devices. Knowing the potential risks helps guide preparation efforts. Flooding: Heavy rain and storm surges can cause rapid water level rises, making roads impassable and homes vulnerable. Strong Winds: Hurricanes can bring winds exceeding 100 mph, toppling trees, damaging homes, and cutting off power. Extended Recovery Time: After a storm, essential services may be limited, making access to food, medications, and transportation difficult. Essential Preparations Emergency Kit: Assemble an emergency kit with the following essentials: medications, medical records, flashlights, extra batteries, non-perishable food, and water (enough for one gallon per person per day) – sufficient for three to five days. Evacuation Plan: Find nearby senior-friendly hurricane shelters that provide accessibility and medical support. Arrange Transportation: If you don’t drive, organize transportation with family, friends, or local emergency services. Communication Strategy: Stay connected with family, neighbors, and emergency contacts. Sign up for emergency alerts through local weather services. Staying Safe During the Storm When the storm arrives, stay indoors and follow safety guidelines. Shelter Wisely: If you are staying home, choose an interior room away from windows. Monitor Updates: Use a battery-powered radio or phone to stay informed on conditions. Stay Calm: Practice relaxation techniques to manage stress and anxiety. What to do After the Storm Once the storm passes, careful steps ensure safety. • Assess Damage before venturing outside—watch for fallen power lines or debris. • Seek Assistance for cleanup, repairs, or financial aid through FEMA or community organizations. • Emotional Resilience: Recovering from a hurricane takes time. Connect with neighbors, friends, and local support groups to help ease the process. Conclusion Preparation is the best way to weather the storm—both physically and emotionally. By taking proactive steps, seniors can remain safe, informed, and in control during hurricane season. If you or a loved one needs additional support, contact your local emergency management office or organizations like the Red Cross. Stay safe, stay prepared, and remember that every storm eventually passes.
Aging isn’t about slowing down—it’s about living more deliberately. As people age, their priorities shift from chasing time to cherishing it. So, what do seniors truly want? The answer is as diverse as the individuals themselves, but some clear themes emerge when we listen closely. 1. Connection and Community One of the most important things seniors crave is connection. Meaningful relationships bring joy and purpose, whether with family, old friends, or new acquaintances. Many seek social opportunities through clubs, senior centers, classes, or online communities. Loneliness can be a silent struggle, so companionship is a deeply valued part of life. 2. Respect and Independence Seniors want to be seen for who they are: individuals with a lifetime of experience, knowledge, and stories. Being treated with dignity and not being "talked down to" matters. So does having the freedom to make choices about their own lives. Maintaining a sense of autonomy is key when deciding how to spend their day, what to eat, or where to live. 3. Health and Wellness Staying healthy is more than just avoiding illness—it’s about having the energy to enjoy life. Seniors are increasingly proactive about fitness, mental health, and nutrition. Access to quality healthcare, fitness programs tailored to their needs, and mental stimulation are all top priorities. 4. Purpose and Meaning Retirement doesn’t mean retiring from life. Many seniors want to stay active through volunteering, mentoring, or even starting new ventures. Purpose drives fulfillment, whether taking care of grandchildren, learning a new skill, or contributing to a cause they care about. 5. Security and Peace of Mind Financial stability, safe housing, and access to reliable services give seniors peace of mind. Many are concerned about outliving their savings, dealing with unexpected health issues, or navigating complex systems. Clear information, supportive resources, and a sense of safety help ease these worries. 6. Fun and Adventure Yes—seniors still want fun! Travel, hobbies, music, food, and laughter never go out of style. Joy is ageless, whether it's a road trip, gardening, or dancing to old tunes. Seniors want to experience life, not just watch it pass by. Start by Listening Ultimately, the best way to understand what seniors want is simple: ask them. Every person, no matter their age, has unique preferences, needs, and dreams. When we listen with empathy and engage with respect, we create a world where aging is celebrated, not feared. Let’s build that world together. Call us to help each other enrich the lives of our seniors. 386-847-2322.