For older adults, life can become quieter and lonely as the
years go by. One way to combat this life change is by owning a pet. The health
benefits of owning a pet for seniors far outweigh the work that goes into
owning one.
Our furry, feathery, or even scaly family members can
provide a variety of physical, mental, and emotional benefits. The bond between
seniors and their pets goes far beyond mere companionship. Here are some of the
top health benefits of owning a pet for seniors
Reduces Loneliness And Isolation
As they get older, many seniors experience feelings of social isolation
and loneliness. This can lead to depression and other significant health
problems. Having a pet, whether it’s a dog, cat, or even a bird, provides
companionship and helps to reduce these feelings of isolation. Pets are loyal
and loving, offering unconditional affection that can significantly improve
your mental and emotional well-being.
Increases Physical Activity
One of the biggest benefits of owning a pet, particularly an
active dog, is that it forces you to be physical. Dogs need to be walked, which
in turn encourages regular physical activity on your part. Seniors with dogs
are more likely to go for daily walks or play with them in the yard. Even this
little bit of physical activity helps maintain mobility, joint flexibility, and
cardiovascular health. In addition, physical activity of any kind leads to a
stronger immune system and a reduced risk of chronic diseases like heart
disease and diabetes.
Lowers Stress And Anxiety
Simply looking at a picture of a little puppy or kitten is
almost guaranteed to put a smile on your face. Studies show that petting a dog
or cat can trigger the release of the mood-regulating
hormone serotonin. It also increases the “feel good” hormone dopamine
while decreasing the level of the stress hormone cortisol. This fluctuation
helps to reduce stress and anxiety levels. Additionally, a pet’s rhythmic,
soothing presence can help lower blood pressure, contributing to overall
cardiovascular health.
Boosts Mental Alertness
Interacting with pets can stimulate mental alertness and
cognitive function. While training your pet and teaching them tricks helps
to boost
their mental capacity, it also helps to maintain your mental acuity. This
mental stimulation can delay the onset of cognitive decline and reduce your
risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Fosters A Sense Of Purpose
Most of us work hard and look forward to the day we can
finally hang up our work boots and retire. However, when that day finally
comes, many seniors often experience a diminished sense of purpose. Owning a
pet can give you back a sense of responsibility and purpose. Caring for a pet
requires routine tasks like feeding, grooming, and exercise, providing
structure to your days and a reason to get out of bed in the morning.
Enhances Social Connections
A study has shown pet owners are more apt to meet their
neighbors than non-pet owners. Pets make great icebreakers for seniors when
they are out on walks or at pet-friendly facilities. This can give you an
opportunity to connect with others and strike up a conversation.
Reduces The Risk Of Allergies And Asthma
Although it sounds like it would be the opposite, having a
pet has been found to reduce
the risk of developing allergies and asthma the older we get. This can
be an added health benefit for seniors who have had pets throughout their
lives.
Get Your “Purrfect” Companion
Owning a pet can do wonders for your health and well-being.
These little bundles of joy enrich seniors’ lives in ways that extend far
beyond companionship. The emotional, physical, and mental health benefits of
having a pet cannot be argued or overlooked. Seniors who share their lives with
a furry friend often experience reduced stress, increased physical activity,
enhanced emotional well-being, and a greater sense of purpose.
This article was submitted by VIPCare. For more information visit the website: getvipcare.com
Thanksgiving is more than just a day for feasting; its a cherished occasion that invites us to reflect on gratitude, connection, and warmth. For seniors, participating in or creating meaningful traditions can foster a sense of belonging and joy. At A Call to Order Professional Organizers, we believe that keeping traditions alive plays a vital role in enhancing the lives of our loved ones. Lets explore some heartwarming ideas and tips to help you create special Thanksgiving traditions that seniors can treasure for years to come.Setting the Stage: Create a Warm and Inviting AtmosphereCreating the perfect Thanksgiving atmosphere begins long before the main event. Its about making your space welcoming and cozy so that everyone, especially seniors, feels at home. Decorate Thoughtfully: Choose decorations that evoke fond memories. Consider using family photos from past Thanksgivings to create a nostalgic display. Handmade crafts by grandchildren, or traditional decorations like pumpkins and autumn leaves, can add a personal touch.Reflection Zone: Set up a special area where seniors can sit comfortably and reflect on their favorite memories or share stories. Create a gratitude tree where family members can hang notes of what they are thankful for.Involve Them in Planning: Ask seniors for their input on the Thanksgiving menu or activities. Involving them in the planning process not only respects their preferences but also empowers them. Its a beautiful way for seniors to feel a connection to the holiday.Comfortable Seating: Ensure that there are comfortable seating arrangements. Invest in cushions or blankets for added warmth. Consider the mobility needs of seniors by arranging the seating to minimize any inconvenience in movement.By creating an inviting atmosphere filled with familiar sights and sounds, you can foster a sense of warmth and comfort, allowing seniors to feel part of a loving, connected family.Cherishing Traditions: Activities to Foster ConnectionThanksgiving is the perfect time to create lasting traditions that will help seniors feel included while allowing them to share some of their cherished experiences.Cooking Together: Invite seniors to share their favorite recipes and cook together. This not only creates a delicious meal but also provides an opportunity for storytelling and bonding. Encourage them to share tales of how they celebrated Thanksgiving when they were younger.Thanksgiving Memory sharing: Prior to the gathering, ask each family member to prepare a story about their favorite Thanksgiving memory or what they appreciate most about the seniors present. When everyone shares, it creates a beautiful tapestry of traditions and experiences, deepening family connections.Gratitude Circle: After your meal, gather everyone for a gratitude circle. Each person can voice what they are thankful for or a favorite memory from the past. This can be a touching moment for seniors, reinforcing their importance in the family and leaving them feeling cherished.Creating a Memory Book: Start a family Thanksgiving memory book where everyone can contribute their thoughts, photos, and drawings each year. Involving seniors in this activity ensures they feel vital and valued within the family legacy. Crafting: Create holiday crafts together, like making festive table centerpieces or card decorations. This activity can ignite creativity and ensure everyone feels included in the holiday preparations.Thanksgiving is a time to reflect, celebrate, and create unforgettable memories together. By focusing on traditions that foster connectedness and joy, you can create a Thanksgiving experience that speaks to the heart of what the holiday truly represents.At A Call to Order Professional Organizers, we understand the importance of environment and connection in enhancing the lives of our loved ones. This Thanksgiving, lets join together to create cherished moments that warm the heart and build lasting memories for seniors, transforming the holiday into a loving celebration. May your Thanksgiving be filled with love, laughter, and cherished moments that you and your family will remember for years to come. Happy Thanksgiving!
Benefits of Senior Care at HomeAs we grow older, our needs change, and sometimes we require a little extra help to maintain our quality of life. Senior care at home has become an increasingly popular option for many families, offering numerous benefits that cater to the unique needs of older adults. Let's explore why this type of care can be so valuable for our loved ones.Comfort and FamiliarityOne of the greatest advantages of senior care at home is the ability to remain in a familiar environment. For many older adults, their home is filled with cherished memories and provides a sense of comfort that cannot be replicated elsewhere. Staying at home can help reduce stress and anxiety, which is particularly important for those dealing with memory issues or cognitive decline.Personalized CareEvery individual has unique needs, and senior care at home allows for a tailored approach to meet these specific requirements. Whether it's assistance with daily tasks, medication management, or specialized care for conditions like dementia, a personalized care plan ensures that your loved one receives the exact support they need.Companionship and Social InteractionLoneliness and social isolation can have serious negative effects on an older person's health and well-being. In-home caregivers not only provide practical assistance but also offer much-needed companionship. They can engage in conversations, share activities, and provide a friendly face to look forward to each day.Maintaining IndependenceMany older adults fear losing their independence as they age. Senior care at home allows them to maintain a sense of control over their lives while receiving necessary support. Caregivers can assist with tasks that have become challenging, enabling seniors to continue living life on their own terms.Family InvolvementHome care encourages family involvement in the caregiving process. This collaborative approach ensures that the family remains an integral part of the support system, promoting a holistic and well-rounded care experience.Flexible Care OptionsAs needs change over time, in-home care can be adjusted accordingly. Whether it's increasing the level of support or adding specialized services, the flexibility of home care allows for seamless transitions without the need for a major upheaval in your loved one's life.Peace of Mind for FamiliesKnowing that a trained professional is caring for your loved one can provide immense peace of mind for family members. This is especially true for those who live far away or have demanding work schedules that make it difficult to provide regular care themselves.Cost-Effective CareIn many cases, in-home care can be more cost-effective than moving to a residential facility, especially if 24/7 care is not required. It allows families to pay only for the services needed rather than a comprehensive package that may include unnecessary amenities.Promoting Overall Well-beingSenior care at home goes beyond just meeting physical needs. It encompasses emotional and mental well-being too. Caregivers can encourage seniors to stay active, engage in hobbies, and maintain social connections, all of which contribute to a higher quality of life.Specialized Care for Unique NeedsFor seniors with specific health conditions, such as Alzheimer's or Parkinson's disease, in-home care can provide specialized support tailored to these unique challenges. Caregivers trained in these areas can offer expert assistance and help manage symptoms effectively.Remember, growing older doesn't mean giving up on the joys of life. With the right support, seniors can continue to thrive in the comfort of their own homes, maintaining their independence while receiving the care they need. It's not just about adding years to life but adding life to years. Quality Care You Can TrustWith over a decade of experience and a team led by a registered nurse, you can trust that your loved one is in good hands with Rita's Home Care. We are passionate about helping those in need and ensuring they receive the best care possible, just as we would for our own family members.Whether you need traditional home care services for an elderly loved one, specialized dementia care support, or end-of-life care, our team is trained and equipped to handle it all. We understand that every individual has unique needs, which is why we offer personalized care plans to ensure your loved one receives the specific support they need to thrive.
Primary care is an important part of living your healthiest life possible, which is why we work hard at Intermountain Health to explain the benefits to everyone.Its also important to make sure that people in minority communities have the same access to health care as everyone else.Thats why Intermountain Health has providers who are LGBTQ+ clinically competent.This means certain providers are specifically trained on how to provide the best care to people who identify as LGBTQ+.For context, a 2024 poll by Gallup found that 7.6% of all U.S. adults identify as LGBTQ+, with one in five of those being from Gen Z (people born between 1997 and 2012).One of the many reasons why its important to make sure that people in the LGBTQ+ community have access to primary care is because it can be the starting point for diagnosing and treating medical conditions.Dr. Kara Chaudhary, the Interim Medical Director of LGBTQ+ Health at Intermountain Health said, For me, its important to provide good care to LGBTQ+ patients in the community because its a community that Im a part of myself and its one that is disproportionately impacted by a lot of health care needs. LGBTQ+ patients face higher rates of chronic illnesses and are known to die earlier as a result of these conditions.This is why the LGBTQ+ Health team at Intermountain Health is continually working to change this by removing potential roadblocks to care for this community.A lot of patients within the LGBTQ+ community face unique barriers to care and have faced discrimination from previous providers, which can turn them away from receiving health care [] when a patient comes here, they know theyre going to have someone who understands their health needs, said Dr. Chaudhary.Its one thats very important to me personally to help people, because this is a preventable thing that we can be helping people live longer and healthier lives and its something thats so easy to do well if we just do our best at it.Intermountain has an LGBTQ+ health specific clinic at the Salt Lake Clinic, which mainly focuses on providing primary care.This includes vaccinations, routine screenings and treatment for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and yearly preventative health exams.Having an LGBTQ+ competent provider will ensure youre screened and treated appropriately to keep you as healthy as possible.Dr. Chaudhary said, The MPOX vaccine was something that was more prevalent in the past but also, its a possibility that we get another wave this summer so its still something that were encouraging for patients.Something the LGBTQ+ Health team has been working on is expanding access to PrEP and PEP for HIV.The way that were planning on doing this is by launching a website that patients can go to where they can fill out a form, speak with a pharmacist, and get the PrEP mailed to them in their own home without having to deal with an office visit, or co-pays, or a lot of the barriers that prevent patients from being able to get that care, said Dr. Chaudhary.The Interim Medical Director also said that anyone who is sexually active and is having partners who dont know their HIV status, or could potentially be positive, would potentially benefit from being on PrEP or having access to PEP.Some Intermountain Health providers who are LGBTQ+ clinically competent also offer video visits which can provide access to primary care for people who live in more remote areas.Primary care providers can also be the first step towards accessing mental health care that fits the unique needs of LGBTQ+ people.Dr. Chaudhary said, In the primary care setting we offer treatment for depression, anxiety, lots of common mental health conditions. For more advanced conditions, we have a number of psychologists and psychiatrists we can refer you to.
VIPcarePreventative CareUtilizing a value-based Medicare Advantage model produces lower rates of hospital stays, emergency department visits, and 30-day readmissions for beneficiaries as compared to Traditional Medicare health models.5-Star ProviderThe Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services use a five-star quality rating system to measure Medicare beneficiaries experience with their health plans and the health care system.Patients 65+ require different attention and care than other age groups. VIPcare provides senior-focused primary care that caters specifically to the needs of older adults.What is Senior-Focused Care?Senior-focused care is primary care that delivers a wide range of value-based healthcare services with a dedicated focus on patients 65+. It takes the unique needs of the senior population into consideration when caring for patients.How Is Senior-Focused Primary Care Different than Traditional Primary Care?At VIPcare, youll notice many differences between how we care for patients and how others do. Because VIPcare specializes in caring for adults 65+, our providers are trained and specialized in the specific clinical needs of seniors. We focus on prevention and management, helping to achieve Better Health. Also, using a value-based model allows our providers to spendmore time with patients. Instead of waiting for an appointment, our providers can see you right away, sometimes even the same day if needed.What are the Benefits of Senior-Focused Care?Many older adults live with multiple chronic conditions, such as hypertension (high blood pressure), diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis. By having a primary care provider that is skilled and trained to treat the senior population and their specific needs, such as chronic conditions, patients receive better and more personalized care. In addition, senior-focused care integrates a team approach and coordinates with specialty care when necessary.What Insurance is Needed for Senior-Focused Care?Senior-focused primary care is best delivered as part of a value-based model and works best when paired with Medicare Advantage plans. However, some VIPcare clinics do accept traditional Medicare.Learn More About Senior-Focused Care at VIPcareVIPcare provides senior-focused primary care to the aging population. We believe in quality over quantity and always strive to deliver 5-star care. Learn more about what makes VIPcare different by scheduling an appointment or calling 251-265-9326.
VIPcareWe are a group of passionate healthcare professionals who believe theres a better way to practice medicine. We see a future where preventative medicine is valued over the traditional approach, what we refer to as sick care. We thrive on seeing our patients healthy, not sick.Preventative CareUtilizing a value-based Medicare Advantage model produces lower rates of hospital stays, emergency department visits, and 30-day readmissions for beneficiaries as compared to Traditional Medicare health models.5-Star ProviderThe Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services use a five-star quality rating system to measure Medicare beneficiaries experience with their health plans and the health care system.Patients 65+ require different attention and care than other age groups. VIPcare provides senior-focused primary care that caters specifically to the needs of older adults.What is Senior-Focused Care?Senior-focused care is primary care that delivers a wide range of value-based healthcare services with a dedicated focus on patients 65+. It takes the unique needs of the senior population into consideration when caring for patients.How Is Senior-Focused Primary Care Different than Traditional Primary Care?At VIPcare, youll notice many differences between how we care for patients and how others do. Because VIPcare specializes in caring for adults 65+, our providers are trained and specialized in the specific clinical needs of seniors. We focus on prevention and management, helping to achieve Better Health. Also, using a value-based model allows our providers to spendmore time with patients. Instead of waiting for an appointment, our providers can see you right away, sometimes even the same day if needed.What are the Benefits of Senior-Focused Care?Many older adults live with multiple chronic conditions, such as hypertension (high blood pressure), diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis. By having a primary care provider that is skilled and trained to treat the senior population and their specific needs, such as chronic conditions, patients receive better and more personalized care. In addition, senior-focused care integrates a team approach and coordinates with specialty care when necessary.What Insurance is Needed for Senior-Focused Care?Senior-focused primary care is best delivered as part of a value-based model and works best when paired with Medicare Advantage plans. However, some VIPcare clinics do accept traditional Medicare.Learn More About Senior-Focused Care at VIPcareVIPcare provides senior-focused primary care to the aging population. We believe in quality over quantity and always strive to deliver 5-star care. Learn more about what makes VIPcare different by scheduling an appointment or calling 251-325-1962.
VIPcarePreventative CareUtilizing a value-based Medicare Advantage model produces lower rates of hospital stays, emergency department visits, and 30-day readmissions for beneficiaries as compared to Traditional Medicare health models.5-Star ProviderThe Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services use a five-star quality rating system to measure Medicare beneficiaries experience with their health plans and the health care system.Patients 65+ require different attention and care than other age groups. VIPcare provides senior-focused primary care that caters specifically to the needs of older adults.What is Senior-Focused Care?Senior-focused care is primary care that delivers a wide range of value-based healthcare services with a dedicated focus on patients 65+. It takes the unique needs of the senior population into consideration when caring for patients.How Is Senior-Focused Primary Care Different than Traditional Primary Care?At VIPcare, youll notice many differences between how we care for patients and how others do. Because VIPcare specializes in caring for adults 65+, our providers are trained and specialized in the specific clinical needs of seniors. We focus on prevention and management, helping to achieve Better Health. Also, using a value-based model allows our providers to spendmore time with patients. Instead of waiting for an appointment, our providers can see you right away, sometimes even the same day if needed.What are the Benefits of Senior-Focused Care?Many older adults live with multiple chronic conditions, such as hypertension (high blood pressure), diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis. By having a primary care provider that is skilled and trained to treat the senior population and their specific needs, such as chronic conditions, patients receive better and more personalized care. In addition, senior-focused care integrates a team approach and coordinates with specialty care when necessary.What Insurance is Needed for Senior-Focused Care?Senior-focused primary care is best delivered as part of a value-based model and works best when paired with Medicare Advantage plans. However, some VIPcare clinics do accept traditional Medicare.Learn More About Senior-Focused Care at VIPcareVIPcare provides senior-focused primary care to the aging population. We believe in quality over quantity and always strive to deliver 5-star care. Learn more about what makes VIPcare different by scheduling an appointment or calling 251-257-2886.