Puppies and kittens. Birds and fish. Turtles and Lizards. Furry or feather-covered, pets come in all types, shapes and sizes, and can be exactly what the doctor ordered to help improve mental and physical health in seniors and their caregivers.

According to PAWS for People, a Delaware-based nonprofit that has provided pet therapy for elders, children and the disabled since 2005, there are numerous perks to pet therapy.

“It’s well-known, and scientifically proven, that interaction with a gentle, friendly pet has significant benefits,” says PAWS for People. “For physical health, pet therapy lowers blood pressure, improves cardiovascular health, releases endorphins (oxytocin) that have a calming effect, and diminishes overall physical pain.”

Pet therapy is particularly ideal for seniors, as the act of petting produces an automatic relaxation response, reducing the amount of medication some folks need, PAWS says. Spending time with affectionate pets also helps with mental health. By providing comfort and lifting spirits, pet therapy lessens depression, decreases feelings of isolation and alienation, encourages communication, increases socialization, reduces boredom, and lowers anxiety. The company of a pet can reduce loneliness, often an issue in elder care. In 2010, the U.S. Census Bureau found that 11 million (28%) people aged 65 and older lived alone, which can cause social isolation, chronic illness, impaired mobility and mental health issues including depression.

“Companionship provided by pets can help alleviate those feelings of loneliness that affect physical and mental health,” says Great Care Founder and CEO Julie Sullivan. ”

PAWS for People says pet therapy can also be motivation for seniors to recover faster after an illness or injury.

“In physical therapy, pet therapy can increase joint movement, improve recovery time,

maintain or increase motor skills and provide motivation to move more, stretch farther, and exercise longer.”

The Pets for the Elderly Foundation, a public charity that provides companionship to seniors through pet ownership, while saving the lives of companion animals in shelters, says the benefits to elderly persons (versus non-pet owners) are obvious.

“Research shows the most serious disease for older persons is not cancer or heart disease — it’s loneliness. Pets offer affection, unconditional love, fight loneliness, and can help ease the loss of a loved one,” the Foundation says.

The Pets for the Elderly Foundation also reports that studies have shown a link between pet ownership and a reduced risk of developing heart disease. According to research, pet companionship also lowers blood pressure and pulse rate and can help lead to 21% fewer visits to the doctor. They also make it easier for seniors and caregivers to make friends through enhanced social opportunities, the Pets for the Elderly Foundation says.

“Pets offer affection and unconditional love, and a sense of security,” the Foundation says.

“Seniors become more active. Pets can ease the loss of a loved one and help seniors take better care of themselves.”

Click here to download the PAWS for People PDF “Benefits of Pet Therapy.”

The professionals at Great Care are available to talk with you and your family about all of your home care needs. Great Care is a non medical in-home care agency providing quality and affordable elder care in Fishers, IN and the surrounding areas. Call (317) 595-9933 for more information