For many elderly people, pets are their reason to get up each morning. Research has found that stroke victims recover their speech faster because they talk to their pets.

1. The Unconditional Love of Pets!
By : Karen Everett Watson

2. It’s impossible to measure the joy that pets bring into our lives.
• For many elderly people, pets are their reason to get up each morning!
• Did you know that pets provide therapy for older adults?
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3. Research has found that stroke victims recover their speech faster
because they talk to their pets.
• Assisted-living facilities and nursing homes have discovered the benefits
of having pets around.
• Many will now allow their residents to keep a pet.
• It’s just good business – happy clients are the best advertisement!
• Elders, who move into a facility with a pet, adjust much easier, making it
easier on the staff and less worry on the family.

4. • There are so many health benefits to keeping a pet.
• They encourage us to keep a schedule.
• Their need for taking walks can get us out into the fresh air for good
exercise.
• And who doesn’t stop to talk to someone
walking their dog.
• These social connections are vital to older
folks who often live alone.
• For the older adult who has lost their spouse,
a pet plays a vital role in working through the
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5. • Pets give us a sense of being needed.
• Older people who have declined in strength and ability still need to
feel that they’re counted on.
• Pets depend on us for love, food and exercise.
My friend, Irene is in her mid 80′s and loves her dog, Sophie. “I just need a
dog,” she said. “If I’ve been out and come back home, she treats me like
the Queen of England!”
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6. • Experts have found that a pet can help lower blood pressure and ease
the symptoms of depression.
• And who doesn’t talk to their pet?
• Verbal responses are known to stimulate the brain and help keep
dementia at bay. Jim Roswurm, a retired veterinarian, enjoys his two
Cairn Terriers.
“They have an unbridled enthusiasm for life,” he said. “Just a joy for living.
It’s like a spark plug start for me even when this old body is tired. It’s
impossible to stay depressed when my little dogs bring me a ball or a big,
wet kiss.”
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7. • For an elder who suffers with arthritis or is recovering from an injury,
a pet can also be a part of their therapy.
• Throwing a dog a ball can help with limited mobility.
• Brushing their pet’s hair can improve their grasp.
• The love and companionship of pets are tonics to our bodies and our
spirits!
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8. So, if you have a lonely elder, the chances are good that a pet would
bring them great joy, a better outlook on life and the companionship
they need.

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