Owning a cat can be one of the best things a senior does. They are small little furry friends that provide companionship for your loved one. Before you recommend a senior get a cat you need to evaluate whether or not they can own a car. Senior home care providers can help your loved one with basic chores but your senior mom or dad should be mostly independent and able to take care of a living animal on their own without much help.
If your mom or dad can do the bulk of the things around the house, they may have no problem taking care of an independent car. On the other hand, if they are relying on you and senior home care to do most of the work, caring for an animal may be the wrong choice.
Once you’ve decided if your loved one can have a cat you’ll want to know why they make the best options for your loved one!
Cats Provide Companionship
Believe it or not, being a senior can get lonely. They may not go out as much as they used to or they may only see senior home care regularly. Either way, they will want a furry little friend to keep them company. By having something they see every day that relies on them it can provide a sense of comfort. These small creatures also love to snuggle which can greatly improve a senior’s mood. Kitty snuggles are the absolute best!
Older Pets Need Homes
Often, when people think about getting a new cat they think about baby kittens. But, if your senior wants a cat they should consider adopting an older one. Older cats tend to need less when it comes to care but they still provide that companionship your loved one is looking for. Older cats have all of the same benefits as younger cats but they may be easier to manage for your elderly loved one.
Cats Can Provide Responsibility
Having some form of responsibility and purpose is crucial. You may not know it but having a cat, something that depends on your senior loved one for food, shelter, and affection can change a cat’s life and a senior’s life. It can make your seniors happier when they know they have something at home that needs them. Everyone needs that sense of purpose and a cat may do just that.
They Are a Stress Relief
It might be silly to think of a cat being a stress relief, but it’s true. When your senior loved one is feeling down in the dumps or stressed out, picking up their tiny little friend can help them calm down. Sitting down to pet a cat can help them relax together and take their mind off of whatever is bothering them. Owning a cat means your senior has something in their life that will always provide them with unconditional love which is great for relieving stress.
Cats Live a Long Time
Adopting a kitten is a long commitment but your senior will likely live for several more years. This allows your loved one to form a close bond with a beautiful animal. If you’re worried about age, encourage your loved one to adopt an older cat.