How Owning a Furry Friend helps with Isolation / Depression
The aging process can be a depressing and lonely time for a lot of people. Want some advice for how to alleviate or eliminate that feeling of loneliness altogether? Invest in a furry friend.
Studies show that animals can eliminate stress and bad moods. Pets offer an excess amount of love at all times and their love is uncomplicated. A pet is going to love you and give you attention no matter what you say. A pet is going to be your buddy as long as you take him / her out and feed him / her.
Here at Episcopal Homes, there are a handful of residents who own a furry friend. Christine Butter, Episcopal Homes resident states, “When you have a furry friend you are constantly outside and active, meeting new people and socializing.” Christine Butter is a proud owner of a Pomeranian, Gloryiana. “The entire time I have owned Gloryiana I have not found myself lonely. She brings me so much happiness and she is perfect,” said Christine Butter.
According to AgingCare.com, “Older pet owners have often said how incredibly barren and lonely their lives were without their pet’s companionship.” That companionship that develops with your pet is a special bond that brings joy to both the owner and the pet. It is a bond that is hard to forget.
- Travel Buddies, Betty and Bramble
HelpGuide.org is a trusted and non-profit guide to mental health and well-being. According to the HelpGuide.org article “Pet owners over 65 make 30 percent fewer visits to their doctors than those without pets.”
If you are interested in learning more about the benefits to owning a pet, http://www.helpguide.org/articles/emotional-health/the-health-benefits-of-pets.htm