When seniors foster a pet the rescue group will pay for the pet’s food and vet care so that seniors don’t have any extra expense. And if caring for a pet becomes too much the rescue will be able to find another foster situation for the pet.
Some seniors may worry about their ability to care for a pet. Home care can help. Seniors who have home care will have someone that can help them with the heavy lifting of pet care.
Carrying bags of food, driving to the vet, and cleaning up after the pet are all tasks that home care can help with. Rescues and shelters always need foster homes for pets so seniors will always have a furry companion if they want one. Some of the benefits seniors can get from fostering a pet include:
Companionship and Emotional Support
One of the biggest benefits that seniors get from fostering a pet is having the companionship and emotional support that pets provide. Seniors can get a lot of physical and mental health benefits from spending time with pets. Seniors who spend time with pets are less lonely and more likely to engage socially with other people. When seniors are aging in place they sometimes become isolated socially. Fostering a pet can keep seniors socially connected.
Increased Physical Activity
Seniors are much more likely to get the physical activity they need to be healthy when they have a pet companion to exercise with. Seniors that foster dogs will enjoy getting out for a long walk with the dog each day. And the dog will enjoy it too. Seniors can also take cats for walks, on a harness and leash or in a pet stroller designed to keep pets safe while they are outdoors.
Reduced Stress and Anxiety
Studies show that having pets lowers stress and helps manage the symptoms of stress and anxiety. Many seniors who struggle with mental health find that the companionship and love of a pet helps them feel better.
Sense of Responsibility and Routine
One of the things that seniors struggle with the most after they retire from a job is no longer feeling like they have a routine or a sense of purpose. Fostering an animal that needs to be fed and walked or cared for every day can give seniors back a sense of purpose and a routine that will keep their days in order. Pets thrive with stability and so do seniors. Together pets and seniors will make the most of each day.
Social Engagement and Community Connections
By fostering a pet seniors will be engaging with other people and the community. They will be taking the pet to adoption fairs, working with potential adopters, and working with local rescue volunteers. Being social and having the chance to spend time with pets is one of the best things seniors can do for their health.
If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring home care in Seneca, SC, contact Heart of the Carolinas Home Care at 864-991-3116. Providing Home Care Services in Greenville, Simpsonville, Greer, Anderson, Spartanburg, Mauldin, Seneca, Laurens, Charleston, Columbia and the surrounding area.
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