Why We Love and Use Pet Therapy
At Benchmark Senior Living, care for our residents comes in all shapes, sizes and forms. As a part of our Called to Care culture, we strive towards creating an engaging environment where everyone feels a sense of support, companionship, and fulfillment. That’s why we schedule regular visits from pet therapy groups at select communities. * Plus, many Benchmark assisted living communities are pet friendly and welcome service animals.
For many seniors throughout the country, dogs and other animals are much more than furry friends. For those in assisted living and mind and memory care, having access to pet therapy can have countless positive benefits as it relates to short-and long-term physical and mental health.
The benefits of pet therapy for seniors are profound and proven. Our associates and residents see them first hand and the positive effects go well beyond just mood boosters. A growing body of scientific research is showing that having a pet or using pet therapy can actually lead to a healthier life. This is especially true for those in our senior assisted living and memory care communities.
Some benefits of pet therapy include:
- Bringing out nurturing instincts
- Providing a source of comfort and focus for those in assisted living and Alzheimer’s memory care
- Giving a feeling of safety and unconditional acceptance
- Aiding in the potential reduction of pain symptoms, depression, anxiety and stress
- Supporting the increase of healthiness and happiness
Our celebration of International Assistance Dog Week extends well beyond just this week. Benchmark Senior Living is proud to be a pet-friendly senior living company every week of the year because there’s nothing quite like a furry friend to brighten our residents’ day, get them up and moving, and help make our Benchmark assisted living communities feel even more like home.
Find a community near you, and schedule a tour with your furry friend to learn even more about our communities and culture.
