Individuals with Dementia need enrichment and companionship, and having a pet may be a helpful solution. Of course, you must carefully consider the pros and cons of pet ownership for your loved one. Fox Trail Memory Care Living provides Dementia care and resources for residents with the condition in North and Central New Jersey. Here, we discuss the benefits and considerations of pets for dementia patients and advice for people considering them.
Benefits of Pets for Individuals with Dementia
Pets provide companionship and emotional support, which can be helpful for individuals with Dementia. There are many other benefits of taking care of pets, including:
- Stress relief: Interacting with pets can be highly beneficial for those with Dementia because pets can reduce stress and anxiety. Over 69% of pet owners have reported that having pets brings them relief from stress and anxiety.
- Mood regulation: Owning a pet allows individuals to improve their mood and social interactions while caring for a companion that will keep them company. It can also help regulate hormones in the brain like serotonin and oxytocin.
- Relaxation: Caring for furry friends can help promote relaxation and contentment in all humans, making it a great way to relax and unwind.
- Reduced loneliness: Owning pets helps create social connections, such as walking a dog to a park and meeting other pet owners. Having a companion by their side can also help decrease feelings of loneliness.
- Sense of purpose: With many related responsibilities, such as feeding, brushing, or walking them, pets can provide a sense of wellness and purpose.
- Enhanced cognitive function: Having pets around can also help boost cognitive functioning in the brain, improving engagement and attentiveness. A 2023 study reveals the positive impact that pet ownership has on verbal memory and cognition in older adults.
Pets can be a responsibility for older adults with Dementia, but they can be a positive change in routine and boost their emotional well-being.
Considerations for Pet Ownership
Although there are many benefits of owning pets for those with Dementia, it may not be right for every individual. Some factors to take into account when considering a pet include:
- Conditions that may be aggravated by the presence of animals, such as allergies
- Fear of animals
- Individual and cultural differences in the acceptance of animals
- Responsibilities of taking care of the animals, such as feeding, brushing, walking, bathing, and getting supplies
While some individuals benefit from interactions with pets, others may not wish for the responsibility or be ready to become pet owners. Committing to full pet ownership may be a large task. Fortunately, there are some alternative solutions that may be more suitable, such as visiting pet cafes or spending time with a family member’s companion.
Are Robotic Pets the Solution for Those with Dementia?
Another alternative available for Dementia residents who don’t wish for the responsibility of owning a pet is to purchase a robotic companion pet. Robotic pets offer warmth and comfort, much like a live animal, but eliminate concerns of responsibility. Vet bills also aren’t an issue with robotic pets, making them helpful for those who may not have access to veterinary care.
Some studies have demonstrated that a robotic pet can have some of the same calming effects as a live pet. Other benefits of robotic pets include low maintenance care. While real pets require walking, feeding, and grooming, robotic pets don’t require the same responsibilities. This may be ideal for some individuals with Dementia who need assistance with daily tasks. Consistent behavior like sounds and movement is easier to predict with a robotic pet rather than a real animal. Some robotic pets include features such as purring, barking, and emitting warmth, just like a live pet.
Robotic pets are also hypoallergenic, making them the perfect companions for those with allergies. Fox Trail Memory Care Living offers residents the chance to purchase their own robotic pet, such as the Joy for All’s companion pet. The robotic pet moves much like a live animal without the responsibilities.
How Fox Trail Memory Care Living Supports Individuals with Dementia
After a Dementia diagnosis, Fox Trail Memory Care Living ensures safety and independence through our outstanding memory care. We support our residents with Dementia through many healthcare initiatives and amenities. Our team also offers comprehensive medical care and 24/7 assistance through the HOPE Program, and we ensure safety and support for safe wandering.
We also offer fully furnished private apartments and home-cooked meals to enrich the lives of our residents. Some other amenities include professional and Dementia-certified staff, walking paths, wellness programs, and 24-hour personal care. Our Dementia care emphasizes the importance of remaining active within a vibrant community and managing the symptoms of Dementia. Contact us for more information or schedule a tour today.