Anybody who owns a pet knows how difficult it can be to give them up permanently. Even putting them in a kennel for a little while can often be a huge decision. Given the option many seniors would prefer not to go to an assisted living facility rather than give up their pet. Although all assisted living communities in Long Beach do not allow residents to keep a pet, there are a few that do. This is great news if your parents own a pet, which they refuse to leave behind.
How Pet Therapy Can Help Seniors
One of the biggest benefits of owning pet is the unconditional love and companionship that they offer. But that’s not all. Studies have shown that owning a pet can have several benefits for seniors, from lowering depression, stress and anxiety to delaying the onset of dementia. The daily positive interaction with their pet gives seniors an increased sense of purpose, which can be immensely satisfying. Even just touching and petting a pet can be calming and comforting. Older pet owners are also at lower risk of heart attacks.
Considering the many benefits your parents will enjoy if they can keep their pet with them, it’s definitely worth looking for an assisted living community in Long Beach that allows pets. However, there are a few things you must keep in mind when choosing this option.
What To Consider When Bringing Pets In Assisted Living Communities
Can pets move freely in the community? This may not apply if the pet in question is a cage-bound such as a hamster. However, if your parents have a dog or a cat, you will need to check that the facility has ample space for them to move around freely. Very few if any facilities allow large dog breeds because of space constraints.
Can you afford to care for the pet? Caring for some types of pets can be expensive. This is more so as a resident in an assisted living facility. Most facilities charge residents extra for keeping a pet. This additional cost in addition to the cost of food and other pet care essentials can stretch your already tight budget.
What happens when you can no longer care for your pet? This is something not everybody wants to think about but it’s important to do so. You must think about your pet’s welfare if you find yourself in a situation when you can no longer provide them with the care they need. Residents who wish to take their pet into an assisted living facility with them must arrange for a family member or friend to care for their pet if they are unable to do so because of declining health or restricted mobility.
Having their pet with them in the assisted living facility can be hugely beneficial for your aging parents. The good news is, you can find a few really good assisted living communities in Long Beach that will be a good fit for your parents and also allow them to bring their pets with them.
