The secret it out! Cats make awesome companions for folks of all ages. No matter your lifestyle – single, young professional, growing family or mature adult living in a retirement community – cats make a great addition to your life and can be an ideal pet.
However, according to americanhumane.org, cats are really great company for older adults for so many reasons:
*Cats are mood boosters. Feeling down or lonely because you feel isolated, the kids have moved away, or you have lost a spouse? A cat can help you overcome those feelings of loneliness and isolation by providing much-needed affection, entertainment, company and a sense of purpose and responsibility.
*Cats are great for your health. Cats need to be cared for in a variety of ways. They require us to scoop out their litter boxes, feed them and give them fresh water. In short, they require us to get up off the couch throughout the day! This can provide much-needed physical activity for older adults. This can also contribute to improved mental stimulation.
*Cats tend to require less maintenance than dogs. Cats don’t mind staying indoors all the time and most adult felines require only about 20 to 30 minutes of interactive playtime per day. Such playtime doesn’t require the owner to be mobile, either. Therefore, if the older adult owner has certain functionality and/or mobility issues, he or she can still playfully interact with the cat. Cats also love to sleep on their owners’ laps or beds. Naptime, anyone?
What to consider before choosing a cat for an older adult:
While it may seem like getting a kitten may inspire an older adult to stay young, in reality, kittens require a great deal of time and care. This can essentially cause more stress than enjoyment for the owner. An older cat is probably more ideal. They have fewer exercise and training demands. Plus, an older cat is less likely to outlive its owner.
The temperament of a cat is important, as well. An older, calm and easy-going cat with little to no medical needs is ideal.
Be on hand to provide any support the older adult cat owner may need.
It may not be easy for the senior adult to get out and purchase any necessary supplies and food. Offer to get some of these essential items for them. Also, it is important to take into account any budget concerns the owner may have. If you know of an older adult who cannot provide the necessary veterinary care or food for a pet, there are some local animal shelters, food banks or vet clinics that offer low-cost services and supplies, These folks usually realize the importance and value of seniors having a connection with pets.
Final thoughts…
For older adults who reside in senior communities, there may be a pet coordinator on site who can assist owners to ensure their pets are receiving the proper food, medication, activity and love they need. These communities may also offer pet therapy programs in which gentle animals meet with residents on a regular basis to provide the healing benefits for which they are known.
Written by Ann Butenas
An internationally-recognized author and writer, Ann began her professional writing career at age 12 and began speaking while in college. She has been published thousands of times over the past three decades in all media forms, was former editor and publisher of KC Metro Woman magazine, and has also hosted three talk radio shows in the Kansas City area.
