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Rx: A Doggie Smooch a Day Keeps the Blues at Bay
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With each wag of a dog’s tail, we’re learning more and more about the benefits of having animals around—therapeutic and otherwise. We’ve heard the buzz—animals can make a healthy difference in the lives of those who associate with them. In The Healing Touch of Animals, I introduced some of the benefits seniors reap when in the company of animals. Studies have found that simply having an animal present or visiting a long-term care facility can provide multiple health benefits to residents. Some skilled nursing facility residents have shown increased communication, decreased anxiety, lower heart rates, and a decrease in depression following interactions with animals. Patients with Alzheimer’s who often become agitated and aggressive have exhibited fewer episodes of verbal outbursts and anxiety and increased positive socialization when a therapy dog was present.
More and more, pets are making it into the mainstream—from the travel industry to senior care facilities to even the workplace. The San Francisco SPCA confirmed the benefits of having pets in certain workplaces in a recent survey—most companies and employees surveyed said that pets help create a more productive work environment. Allowing pets in the workplace helps reduce stress and anxiety because employees don’t have to worry or feel guilty about leaving Fido at home.
Here are some benefits of pet ownership as listed by the Delta Society:
- Pet owners have lower triglyceride and cholesterol levels.
- Pet owners have fewer minor health problems, lower medical costs, better psychological well-being.
- Pets promote social interaction, decrease the feeling of loneliness and isolation, and increase morale and optimism.
- Pets promote exercise, playfulness and laughter—how can they not be good for you?
In general, increasing numbers of hotels and even restaurants are opening their doors—and tables—to our beloved pets. Greater numbers of seniors are choosing assisted living facilities that accept pets. In addition, facilities are taking notice with good reason. The American Heart Association asserts that a 12-minute visit with a dog or cat decreased heart patients’ anxiety and blood pressure—benefits that exceeded that of a visit with another person!
How Can Animals Help You?
Visitation Therapy:
This common type of animal therapy involves bringing familiar and domestic animals—mainly cats, dogs, rabbits or gerbils—to long-term care facilities. Residents have the opportunity to pet and hold these curative critters without having to actually care for them.
Ownership Therapy:
This is my favorite type! Many senior care facilities allow pet ownership, which has its obvious benefits—companionship, stress reduction and bonding.
Animal-Assisted Therapy:
A specific, goal-oriented therapy, in which an animal that meets certain criteria and specialized training becomes part of a senior’s treatment process. The therapy is usually documented, and designed to promote improvement in human physical, social, emotional, and/or cognitive functioning.
Pets shouldn’t be viewed as a panacea to relieve loneliness and other problems that a senior might face. While human companionship and support should still remain a priority for the elderly, the company of animals can be a wonderful thing.
Until next time—
Ami Icanberry
Posted in: Assisted Living, Holistic Health, How-to's, Skilled Nursing, Therapy, Tips for Healthy Living
I’ve been saying this very thing for years. I have three cats and they bring me a lot of happiness. I’m up there in age now and its nice to have them waiting for me at home at the end of the day.
That is the cutest picture I’ve ever seen! Is that your dog? You know, I’d like to get a dog for my grandmother but she’s all about cats. If you ask me, cats are boring. But if it makes her smile then thats great. I had no idea it actually lowers her triglyceride level. Actually I had no idea what a triglyceride level is but I’m glad hers is lowered!