Quick Summary: Pets can bring companionship, routine, and a sense of purpose to everyday life. This guide from Jewish Community Housing Corporation (JCHC) explores research-based emotional, mental, and physical health benefits of pets for seniors. It also covers what to consider before bringing a pet into senior living and what to look for in pet-friendly senior living communities.
It’s a crisp fall morning in Morris County, NJ. Neighbors are outside walking their dogs, while cats greet their owners with familiar meows as their food bowls are filled. For many people, pets become part of this rhythm of everyday life, from morning walks and familiar feeding routines to quiet evenings spent together.
As we grow older, these familiar bonds may take on new meaning. A pet can be a comforting presence during life’s changes, a reason to get outside, or simply a companion to share the quieter moments of the day. Research shows these daily interactions are just one of the many benefits of pets for seniors that extend beyond companionship to emotional, mental, and physical well-being.
At Jewish Community Housing Corporation (JCHC), we know how meaningful these relationships can be, which is why we’re proud to be a pet-friendly senior living community. In this guide, we’ll explore what research says about the benefits of pets for seniors and what to consider when looking for pet-friendly senior living communities in New Jersey.
Benefits of Pets for Seniors: What the Research Says
Pets bring companionship, affection, and joy into our lives. But beyond these obvious benefits, research shows that pets can also play a vital role in healthy aging.
According to the University of Michigan’s National Poll on Healthy Aging, 64% of pet owners aged 50 and older said their pets make them feel loved, while 71% reported that their pets help them enjoy their lives. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also notes that the bond between people and their pets is linked to several mental, emotional, and physical health benefits.
1. Physical Health Benefits of Having a Pet
More Reasons to Stay Active
A dog waiting for its morning walk, a cat ready for playtime, or a rabbit that needs feeding and grooming all offer older adults gentle reasons to stay active throughout the day.
Research supports a possible connection between pet ownership and physical well-being. A study published in The Gerontologist involving 637 adults aged 50 to 100 found that pet ownership was associated with a slower decline in physical function over time, including walking speed and overall physical performance.
Supporting Heart Health
The benefits of having a pet may also extend to heart health. A research analysis by the American Heart Association on the physical health benefits of owning a pet found that pet ownership is associated with certain cardiovascular benefits, including lower blood pressure.
While having a pet isn’t a substitute for heart-healthy habits or medical care, the companionship and opportunities for physical activity they offer can contribute to overall cardiovascular well-being.
2. Emotional Benefits of Pets for Seniors
A Sense of Purpose
Caring for a pet gives each day a reason to get up and get going. In the University of Michigan’s National Poll on Healthy Aging, 83% of pet owners aged 50 and older said their pet gives them a sense of purpose, the most commonly reported benefit.
That purpose often comes from simple responsibilities: filling a water bowl, brushing a cat’s coat, or remembering a dog’s favorite treat. These moments of care can be very meaningful during life transitions, such as retirement or a move to a new home.
Companionship and Comfort
Pets offer comfort through life’s hard moments, from grieving a loved one to settling into a new home or simply feeling lonely. And you don’t need to own a pet to enjoy the companionship. Therapy dog visits can bring similar moments of joy and connection.
At our Lester Senior Living community in Whippany, NJ, we have fully embraced pet therapy and have regularly scheduled visits with Harmony, a therapy dog beloved by our residents and staff.
For more, read our blog on the benefits of pet therapy for seniors,
Lower Stress
A few quiet moments with a pet may offer a welcome break from everyday worries. Petting a cat, watching fish swim, or spending time with a gentle dog can be relaxing experiences.
In their article on The Power of Pets, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) noted that interacting with animals may influence the body’s response to stress. While the effects vary from person to person, these everyday interactions may offer older adults opportunities to unwind and feel more at ease.
3. Benefits of Pets for Mental Health
Easing Loneliness
Feeling lonely from time to time is natural, especially when social circles change as we grow older. However, prolonged loneliness can affect more than just our mood. The National Institute on Aging (NIA) links loneliness and social isolation to increased risks of depression and cognitive decline.
Pets can help make quieter days feel less lonely. They can also bring people together, whether it’s chatting with a neighbor during a dog walk or bonding with someone over a shared love of animals.
Structure and Routine
Pets have their own schedules, and they never fail to remind us about them. Feeding a bird, walking a dog, or playing with a cat can bring structure to the day.
In the University of Michigan poll on Healthy Aging, 44% of older pet owners said their pets helped them maintain a routine, which may be especially meaningful during transitions such as retirement.
Supporting Cognitive Health
Could having a pet also benefit your brain? A study published in the National Library of Medicine found that pet ownership was associated with better memory, attention, and processing speed.
While the study doesn’t prove that pets prevent cognitive decline, it suggests that animal companionship can have a positive connection with brain health as we age.
Things to Consider Before Bringing a Pet Into Senior Living
Pets offer many benefits, but they’re also a long-term commitment of time, money, and energy. Whether you already have a pet or are thinking about adopting one, it helps to consider a few practical questions before you bring them to senior living.
- Is your pet a good fit for your lifestyle? Consider its age, size, temperament, and daily care needs. An older cat or a calm dog may be easier to manage than an energetic puppy. Many senior living communities may have limitations on pet size.
- Does your pet have any special health needs? Think about medications, veterinary visits, mobility issues, or other care your pet may need. Are you able to support a pet financially? Do you have the time, energy, and mobility to manage these needs?
- Can you comfortably manage the responsibilities? Do you have the time, energy, and mobility to manage a pet’s needs?
- Do you have a backup care plan? Identify a trusted friend or family member who could care for your pet if you’re traveling, hospitalized, or temporarily unable to manage its needs.
What to Look for in Pet-Friendly Senior Living Communities
Once you feel confident about your pet’s needs and your ability to care for them, the next step is to explore pet-friendly senior living communities that can comfortably accommodate you both.
These questions can help you compare your options:
- Which pets are allowed? Ask about types, sizes, breeds, and how many pets each resident can have. Some communities may also limit the total number of pets permitted on each floor or within a building.
- Are there fees or deposits? Find out about one-time and monthly costs so there are no surprises.
- What happens to your pet in an emergency? Ask whether the community has a plan for handling pet emergencies, including contacting a veterinarian, arranging transportation, and notifying you or your designated emergency contact if you’re unavailable.
- Is there space to walk and play? Look for walking paths, green space, or outdoor areas that are safe and easy to get to.
- What happens if you need help? Ask whether staff or local services can assist with walking, feeding, or vet visits if your health changes.
- Does the policy change with your level of care? Pet policies for independent living may differ from those for assisted living or memory care.
You can also visit senior living communities in person to see how pets fit into everyday life there.
Pet-Friendly Senior Living at Lester Senior Living
Moving to senior living doesn’t necessarily mean leaving your beloved pet behind. At Lester Senior Living in Whippany, New Jersey, residents can continue enjoying the companionship of their pets. Some guidelines may apply, so our team is happy to walk you through the details for you and your companion.
Residents and their pets can enjoy Lester’s walking trails and landscaped outdoor spaces, with room for a morning stroll or a quiet afternoon outside.
If you’re exploring pet-friendly senior living for yourself or a loved one, we invite you to contact our team or schedule a tour of Lester Senior Living.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Which pets are good for seniors?
A. The best pet depends on your lifestyle, mobility, health, and ability to provide daily care. A calm adult cat or an older dog with a relaxed temperament may be a good choice for someone who prefers a pet that requires less physical activity. Birds and fish are also good options. Before choosing a pet, think about the time, costs, and responsibilities involved.
Q. Can I bring my pet to assisted living?
A. Many assisted living communities welcome pets, but policies vary. Some may have restrictions on pet size, breed, or number of animals. It’s best to contact the community directly to understand its pet policy, any additional fees, and whether assistance with pet care is available.
Q. How can I find pet-friendly senior living communities in New Jersey?
A. To find a pet-friendly senior living community in New Jersey, start by looking for senior living communities in your preferred area that allow pets. Ask about pet policies, outdoor spaces, and any restrictions before scheduling a visit. Our Lester Senior Living community in Whippany, New Jersey, is pet-friendly. Contact our team to learn more.
Q. What are the benefits of pet therapy for seniors?
A. There are many benefits of pet therapy for seniors. It may help older adults feel less lonely, reduce their stress, and offer them greater emotional comfort. Spending time with therapy animals can also encourage social interaction, spark positive memories, and bring moments of joy to everyday life. For seniors who don’t own pets, therapy animal visits offer an opportunity to enjoy animal companionship without the responsibilities of pet ownership.
Q. Are there dog-friendly parks and walking trails near Lester Senior Living?
A. Yes. Lester Senior Living is located in Whippany, New Jersey, with several dog-friendly outdoor spaces in the surrounding Morris County area. Central Park of Morris County offers walking trails and a dedicated dog park, while designated sections of Patriots’ Path welcome leashed dogs. Before visiting, check the park’s rules, trail conditions, and accessibility to find a comfortable option for you and your pet.