Pets and the Elderly

If you have a dog you, know how beneficial they are to your overall health. You may not realize it on a daily basis, but their steadfast companionship helps on those days you may be feeling stressed.

So if it is good for us to have the love of our furry friend, imagine the effects a dog can have on the elderly and ill. Studies are expanding our knowledge of pet therapy, and their benefits, by leaps and bounds. The following is a list of just some of the many benefits dogs can provide.

1. Animals help decrease isolation and loneliness.

2. Elderly people with an animal companion tend to go to the doctor less.

3. Dogs are good for your heart. Studies have shown cholesterol levels are lowered with the love of a dog in your life.

4. Dogs can help to alleviate everyday stress.

5. Pets naturally know how to make you laugh.

6. Dogs need to exercise and this in turn helps you stay fit.

7. Pets can help satisfy our need for touch, affection and warmth.

8. Animals provide the elderly and ill with hope.

One dog can provide unconditional love and fill a void for many. Volunteering with your dog to provide the elderly and ill with the benefits as mentioned above is known as Animal-Assisted therapy.

Monthly visits from a therapy dog in a nursing home will have residents looking forward to their special four-legged friend. Because dogs do not judge others, they are always happy to share their love with anyone. This has a very positive effect socially and emotionally on residents and patients. Dogs are also very good at listening. This is an added benefit to the elderly and ill as they may not have many other visitors.

Sharing your dog with others in need will automatically have a positive effect on you as well. Here are some benefits you may experience:

1. You may find yourself in more of a relaxed mood.

2. You may feel more connected to the world.

3. You may feel a sense of purpose and accomplishment.

4. You may find you are more confident.

5. You may feel a sense that volunteering has shown you the bigger picture of life.

If you feel your dog may be a good candidate as a therapy dog you must undergo training through a therapy dog program. There are many wonderful ones to choose from, which you can find by doing a search on the Internet. If your dog is naturally calm, friendly and attentive around people and other dogs, it is likely your dog will be perfect.

Once you have become a registered therapy dog team contact your local long-term care facilities, as well as hospitals to find out if they would like a visit from your therapy dog. Most facilities are recognizing the importance of dogs visiting and will be enthusiastic about you starting as soon as possible.

One important thing to remember as you start your visits is not everyone will want to be around your dog. Don’t take it personally. Be respectful to those not wishing the presence of your dog.

The feeling of volunteering with your dog and reaching out to others in need is hard to put into words. The only way to experience this wonderful act of kindness is with the heart. May your heart overflow with all good feelings as you embark on sharing your dog with others.

For more information on health insurance coverage in North Carolina, please visit our website at www.nchealthplans.com or call our toll free number 888-765-5400 and speak with one of our qualified agents.  Our agency provides coverage for health insurance in North Carolina through Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina (BCBSNC).  You may qualify for a 15% healthy lifestyle discount if you are in excellent health.  Call us for details.