Pet’s and Dementia: Weighting the Pros and Cons
Pets can have a positive impact on individuals experiencing dementia. Interactions with pets can provide emotional and psychological benefits for people with dementia, as well as improve their overall quality of life. Here are some ways in which pets can benefit those with dementia:
Companionship: Pets, such as dogs or cats, can provide companionship and reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation, which are common among individuals with dementia. The presence of a pet can offer comfort and a sense of security for the person experiencing dementia.
Emotional Support: Interacting with pets can evoke positive emotions and help reduce anxiety, depression, and agitation in people with dementia. Petting or cuddling with a pet can release endorphins, which are natural mood elevators.
Routine and Structure: Caring for a pet can establish a daily routine, which is beneficial for individuals with dementia. This routine can help with memory and cognitive function by providing a sense of order in their day.
Physical Activity: Owning a pet, especially a dog, can encourage physical activity. Taking the pet for walks or playing with them can help maintain mobility and improve cardiovascular health. There are many stories of people staying active just because of them prioritizing their animals' walks and physical well being.
Social Interaction: Pets can serve as a conversation starter and a source of social interaction. They can facilitate communication between individuals with dementia and their caregivers, family members, or friends.
Stress Reduction: The presence of a beloved pet can reduce stress levels and lower blood pressure, which can be particularly important for individuals with dementia who may experience heightened stress and anxiety. It has even been noted to lower the caregivers blood pressure (Connell, 2007).
Sense of Purpose: Caring for a pet can give individuals with dementia a sense of purpose and responsibility. It provides them with a role and a reason to engage in daily activities.
For example, I grew up in a household where we always had pets. From indoor and outdoor bunnies, ferrets at one point, hermit crabs, a lizard, fish, dogs and cats, and my mom has always had a connection with birds so throughout the years we have had a few birds in the house as well. We also have free-range chickens in the backyard; our neighbors even bought their own feed for when our chickens would come into their yard from down the street because they even enjoy them!
Not everyone is an animal lover, but for those who are, pets can have a very positive impact and affect their quality of life. However, it is essential to consider some factors when introducing pets to individuals with dementia:
Allergies, safety, pet choice and the caregiver’s involvement. Remember to be mindful of the potential allergies that come with having pets, like pet dander, which can exacerbate respiratory issues. Ensuring that the pet is well-behaved and won’t pose any safety risks to the person with dementia, such as tripping hazards or aggressive behavior. Not to mention, not all pets are suitable for all people with or without dementia. Some may have preferences and may be better suited to dogs, while others may prefer cats or another type of animal. Consider carefully based on the person and their personality with each kind of animal. Caregivers, whether a child, or any relative or friend should be prepared to be assisting with the pet care, for example feeding, grooming, and veterinary visits.
Pet’s should have a positive impact on individuals experiencing dementia by providing companionship, emotional support, routine, and physical activity. However, it's essential to assess the individual's specific needs and preferences and ensure that the introduction of a pet is safe and well-managed.
Resources:
Connel, C. M. (2007, November). Are pets a source of support or added burden for ... - sage journals. Sage Journal. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/0733464807305180
Can caring for a pet help a person with dementia?. Alzheimer’s Society. (2017, February 1). https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/blog/can-caring-for-a-pet-help-a-person-with-dementia
