Assisted Living with Pets Allowed in Tampa, FL
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), almost 90% of pet owners view their animals as members of their families. While they don't talk back to us, our four-legged companions can still provide all the attention and love we need, so it's understandable why pet owners feel this way.
We wouldn't abandon our spouse or child when we move, so why would we leave our furry friends behind? If you're an older adult who's considering transitioning to a senior living community, then you'll want to find assisted living with pets allowed in Tampa, FL.
Fortunately, Discovery Village Westchase provides exactly what you need. We'll show you why aging with pets is beneficial, what you can expect from our community, and which animals are ideal for seniors.
Why Aging With Animals Is Good
It's not all sunshine and rainbows when you have to take care of another living being. So you may be wavering about moving with pets.
However, the positives far outweigh the negatives. Here are the areas that animals can help with.
Mental Health
The World Health Organization (WHO) says that around 14% of adults older than 60 have a mental disorder. They cite loneliness and social isolation as key risk factors for mental health conditions in later life too.
The main thing that pets will help with is reducing loneliness, anxiety, and depression. This is especially true if you live alone.
What's amazing is that the physical act of petting a cat or dog can improve your mental health. This is because it lowers your cortisol levels, and therefore, it decreases stress. In addition, it increases serotonin and dopamine levels, which are "feel-good" hormones.
Emotional Health
When your mental health improves, your emotional health will as well. It may be difficult to maintain routine and structure when you're on your own, but if you have to care for a pet, this can naturally fall into place.
Not to mention, your life will be fulfilling when you're responsible for your furry friend. They'll then reward you with comfort and affection.
Brain Health
It's always important to keep your mind active, but especially so as we age. You might already do puzzles and crosswords, but taking care of an animal is much more fun, and brain training comes naturally. You'll have to:
- Feed your pet daily
- Take it to vet appointments
- Make it grooming appointments or groom it yourself
Pets in memory care settings can help immensely too. Those who already have dementia or Alzheimer's may see a decrease in behavioral issues since they have a calm pet that provides comfort.
Physical Health
Maintaining a fit and healthy body can help you keep your independence for longer. Yes, you can go to the gym, but walking on a treadmill can only hold your interest for so long.
However, having a pet as a senior means motivation to exercise. For example, you may have to walk your dog or clean your animal's cage regularly. It's an easy way to perform gentle movement.
Being around animals can boost your immune system too. It seems that the saying "a little dirt never hurt anyone" has some truth to it.
Social Life
If you ever find yourself at a loss regarding what to say during a conversation, then a lifesaving topic is animals. All you have to do is mention that you have a cat or a dog, and this can strike up a scintillating discussion where you make a new friend at the end.
Plus, when you walk your dog, it's likely that you'll see other dog owners out and about. Ask a simple question about their pup, and you might just talk for hours.
Assisted Living With Pets Allowed at Discovery Village Westchase
Want to move into a senior living community with your furry companion? Then look no further than Discovery Village Westchase.
We have six distinct floor plans that range from 300 to 975 square feet, and they all accommodate pets. There's ample storage space, so both you and Fido can put your belongings away neatly.
Also, in our pet-friendly assisted living in Tampa, we have large walk-in showers. Not only will it be easy for you to clean yourself, but it'll also be no issue to get your pets or their cages in for a rinse.
To get your daily dose of exercise, you can use our outdoor amenities. There are covered areas, such as gazebos and pergolas.
Pets to Consider for Older Adults
Don't have a pet yet? Or do you want to double-check that you have an animal that's ideal for older adults? Then see below which ones you should consider.
Cats and Dogs
There's a reason why cats and dogs are the most popular type of pet in the world; they're the most domesticated creatures. As a result, they enjoy human companionship easily and make great emotional support animals for seniors. There are many cat and dog-friendly retirement communities, so housing won't be tough to secure.
Small Animals
Small animals can offer companionship too, and they won't make as much noise or mess since they have to live in a cage. Think about getting:
- Mice
- Hamsters
- Rats
- Guinea pigs
- Rabbits
Fish
If you're not a fan of interacting with animals but still want something to relax your mind, then fish are great. You may even find it soothing to monitor the water and clean the tank.
Birds
Birds are intelligent creatures that are affectionate too. You won't need to walk them either. Suggestions here include:
- Budgies
- Canaries
- Cockatiels
Have an Animal Companion by Your Side
If you're searching for assisted living with pets allowed, then you'll get it here at our senior living community. We've designed our living spaces with pets in mind, so you and your companion will feel completely comfortable.
In addition, we have numerous resort-like amenities, such as our Grande Clubhouse and restaurant-quality dining. You'll feel right at home in our community, and you'll be completely spoiled with our amenities and attentive staff members.
To hear more about senior living in Tampa, FL, get in touch with us now. Discovery Village Westchase has an exclusive set of lifestyle programs to elevate our residents' lives.