The key to aging well is to effectively handle life’s major changes, such as retirement, the loss of loved ones, and the physical changes of aging. Pets can play an important role in healthy aging by:

• Helping you find meaning and joy in life. As you age, you’ll lose things that previously occupied your time and gave your life purpose. You may retire from your career or your children may move far away. Caring for a pet can bring pleasure and help boost your morale and optimism. Taking care of an animal can also provide a sense of self-worth.
• Staying connected. Maintaining a social network isn’t always easy as you grow older. Retirement, illness, death, and moves can take away close friends and family members. And making new friends can get harder. Dogs especially are a great way for seniors to spark up conversations and meet new people.
• Boosting vitality. You can overcome many of the physical challenges associated with aging by taking good care of yourself. Pets encourage playfulness, laughter, and exercise, which can help boost your immune system and increase your energy.

Pets and adults with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia

Reprinted with permission for personal or non-profit use. Visit www.helpguide.org to see the article with links to related articles.  This material is for information and support; not a substitute for professional advice.

By Neal R. Davis, Senior Executive Director, Benchmark Assisted Living

Making the decision to live in an Assisted Living community is a big step to take with many questions to be asked and concerns to be addressed. How will I fit in? Why is the apartment so small, can I afford it, can I bring my cat? Am I going to like the staff, is the food good? Will I have any friends? The answers to these questions may require some adjustments in your lifestyle, but for most people who become residents, the friendly faces, understanding and caring staff, as well as many new friends, quickly replace the unease caused by the unknown.

Many Assisted Living communities are like large homes with living rooms, a community kitchen, a library, exercise space, a dining room, community meeting rooms, outside patios and walks. Apartments provide private space, but most socializing is done in the public areas.  Group and individual activities give residents a chance to mingle, learn new things, listen to music, perhaps share a glass of wine, or take a road trip to a local attraction or movie.

The dining experience is usually one of the highlights of the day. In a number of communities residents come together for three meals per day, other communities offer a choice of meal plans. Whatever the arrangement, seeing familiar faces, catching up on news, and discussing the day’s activities all provide a feeling of camaraderie and support.

The people who work in an Assisted Living community are there to provide a level of hospitality services that will meet your needs, provide a sense of security and give you peace of mind.  Knowing that you can depend on the friendly, well-trained staff goes a long way towards making your quality of life better and more fulfilling.

Assisted Living communities provide an opportunity for people to maintain their independence longer and enjoy the process of maturing more fully in a stimulating and supportive environment.

The Alzheimer’s Association has published a tip sheet called 10 Tips for Keeping Your Independence.  It’s a really good and concise overview of how we can all actively participate in meeting the challenges of aging, and not just necessarily for those living with dementia. (In the on-line article, there are several links to Alzheimer Association products.)

Of the ten tips, the one I think is probably the most important and perhaps also the hardest is #4 – Plan for the Future.  “At some point, it will become too difficult to live independently. Make plans now for your future so your family can honor your wishes.” This takes courage, communication and a lot of support, because it requires the recognition that things will change, and more help might be necessary.

For seniors who are aging, it means establishing “a line”, and then acknowledging when you’ve crossed it. A line might be:

• Several minor fender benders in the car, or unsafe driving patterns
• Fear of getting in and out of the tub or shower without assistance
• Weight loss or other signs of poor nutrition or health care
• Withdrawal from social activities

It’s sometimes a good idea to decide in advance that “crossing the line” is an automatic conversation starter. For the senior, it’s important that family members know what you want, and also have permission to start the conversation.  “Son, let’s agree that if you ever notice unsafe driving or car damage, then we should have a conversation about my eyesight, reflexes or ability to drive. If there comes a time when I shouldn’t be driving myself, I’ll want to talk about other transportation, like taxis, or ride sharing.”

Make your own list of what you think are important lines, and take charge of sharing them with family members or caregivers. It will help you meet the fear of the unknown, and establish your wishes for the future.