Baby Boomers Live Longer With Pets

Baby Boomers Live Longer With Pets and since the longer we live the less loved ones some of us have. Get a pet.

Empty nesters, those of us with out children, gradual loss of contact with those we love. It all adds up to loneliness. To me, the worst part  of aging.

But, there are ways to correct this. Animal contact yields better health and less stress.Such a simple cure.

As well, the further we age, some of us will end up frail and dependent on others for transportation, help with the simple tasks of daily life. Ever pride full these frailties might make it more difficult to avoid loneliness and isolation.

Why not fill the empty nest with unconditional love and the affection. Get a pet. There are so many pets at animal shelters that need you as well.

Research as proven the link between pets and health promotion. It is very clear and simplistic that contact with animals powerfully assists in improving the health of nursing home patients and hastens the recovery of hospitalized patients.

Research on individuals of all ages clearly show that 15 minutes of direct contact a day with an animal reduces stress, lowers blood pressure, slows heart rate, improves sleep and reduces the risk of depression.

Amazing what a little fur face can do. There are assistance animals that can help you with every day living and coping with impairments, as well.

For humans, interacting with a pet offers nurturing, rapport, socialization, entertainment and even exercise. Just the act of reaching out and petting can improve movement skills for some. It is amazing to watch how the animals react to those who need love. It is no surprise that a dig is mans best friend. They seem to know what is expected of them and are very gentle with those who need the most gentle care.

Get this study…people who walk with dogs exercise more consistently and experience bigger fitness results than those who walk with one of their two legged friends. Plus, dogs are more reliable, walk faster, don’t mind the weather and not many dogs will refuse to go for a walk. My dog likes to go about every 6 hours and she would go every hour if I was willing. A dog is a convincing enthusiasts for the regular walks.

Well, here comes the truly important health benefit of having a pet…it is the physical contact and touch. Contact with animals are safe, soothing and nonthreatening. One stroke of a cat’s back or the breath of a puppy (puppy breath), the touch of a cold puppy nose, the touch of a paw on at lap and out of nowhere, unhappy patients will smile, unwind and feel a deep sense of gratitude and contentment.

Yes, we are talking longevity. A little will go a long way.

Baby Boomers Live Longer With Pets and ut does not matter what kind of pet. All kinds are important to older people who live alone or who reside in nursing homes.

Just recently, Occupational Therapy International, published an important study showing that contact with pets and the resulting companionship and sensory stimulation improved the ability of nursing home residents to socialize while decreasing stress, anger and disruptive behavior.

In addition, pet therapy decreased the need for sedatives or medications to prevent agitation. Self-esteem, patient independence and increased responsibility were also noted.

Occupational and physical therapists have caught on to this phenomenon and have found that pet therapy had many physical benefits for patients. It show greater muscle strength, range of movement improved, and pain management was largely more successful. Pets also reduced blood pressure and lowered the heart rate.

Animal therapy has become so beneficial that many apartments, condominiums and assisted living facilities are accepting animals. The demand for “pet-friendly” establishments will only grow as the baby boomer generation marches past 65. As you know, most long term care facilities, hospitals and health clinics already have programs in place for animal assisted therapy.

There are training programs available to teach volunteers how to facilitate interactions between patients and a pet. I have a Canadian friend who does this and she finds it very rewarding. Individuals who are interested can find local community programs, often through animal training associations, to certify their pets as a valuable therapy animal.

For adults who are interested in volunteer in pet therapy programs, the health benefits are like a coin, two sided. You will also get the benefits. Not only do you get to care for and interact with your animal, but you also get the fulfillment of seeing others benefit from your loving animal.

Baby Boomers, if you are older and live alone, seriously consider getting a pet. Whether it’s a dog, cat, bird or an iguana, a pet can be an amazing addition to your life. Unconditional love is something that we all need and want. We will benefit better health and if you get your pet from a shelter, it will save a life and yours! Just remember to have your pet placed in case your pet out lives you.

There are SPCA in most towns but just in case you are having a hard time finding one, here is their blog http://www.spcai.org/, The same goes for the Human Society of America. http://www.humanesociety.org/

Remember, there is no such thing as a bad pet…just a bad pet owner. Animals fill critical needs in our every day lives and Baby Boomers Live Longer With Pets, get one today.