Seniors generally prefer independence to institutional care — and even to moving in with children. The desire for Mom or Dad to stay independent — and healthy — is generally uppermost on the kids’ minds as well.

One of the ways that seniors can increase their likelihood of thriving in independent living is to maintain contact with others with whom you have a relationship.

Not surprisingly, one great way to do that is through care for a pet. Joy Loverde from the Eldercare ABC Blog comments on the important benefits of pets for the aging….

Love the elderly, love their pets | Elder Care ABC

Animals make no distinction between the sick and the healthy or the young and the old, and their love is unconditional; elders transfer much of their love and attention to their pets as a way of dealing with natural losses in their lives. Over the years, studies have proven that interaction with pets provides medical benefits to older people.

Besides the surprising health benefits, there can also be the increased likelihood of successful independent living — which is the goal most seniors, and their children, have as a top priority in health care planning.

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