Benefits of having pets for the elderly

Those of us who have pets at home have it clear: having a dog or cat keeps you active and brings you countless moments of happiness.
With a pet at home you never feel alone, you always have someone waiting for you, someone who pampers you, someone who is dying to take a nap next to you. Someone for whom, in short, you are everything. And if this is gratifying for anyone, for the elderly it is fundamental.

A good companion in life, dog or cat, helps to ward off loneliness.

In Spain, more than 2,300,000 people over the age of 65 live alone. Many are the effects of loneliness on them: increased risk of depression, poor diet, cognitive impairment, worsening of cardiovascular and bone diseases...
In the Third Age having a pet at home has multiple benefits:
To begin with, you will no longer feel alone: a pet is always there ready to follow every step you take and offering you unconditional and sincere affection. They don't say a word, but as those of us who have pets say: all they need to do is talk!!!

The importance of keeping active.

If your chosen pet is a dog, you have to take it for a walk: one more advantage, since besides doing exercise that will help you to be in shape, you will surely meet other dog owners and establish relationships with other people. In addition, having a dog increases the feeling of security and protection in the elderly.

Tofavor the self-esteem and to exercise the memory.

Feeling that someone needs you, requires your care and attention is also fundamental to overcome loneliness and depression. Having a pet helps to overcome stress and maintain a good memory.

If you are older and feel lonely... put a pet in your life. And if not, too!