Every retirement community strives to make the lives of their residents as comfortable as possible and one of the ways is to encourage residents to maintain their regular routine. For pet owners, they will be delighted to know that there are pet-friendly independent living communities in Mission, KS that welcome their furry friends. Residents can continue caring for their pets as long as possible throughout their retirement to enjoy the companionship they provide. Here’s why you should consider a pet-friendly community.
Pets Provide Physical and Emotional Benefits
The best independent living communities provide residents with flexibility and peace of mind. However, a variation in living arrangements can bring about certain changes in a residents’ way of life. A percentage of older adults may face emotional challenges like experiencing anxiety or loneliness. Pets can help combat these problems which is the reason why some independent living communities welcome pets in their premises. Some pets can be trained to provide emotional support for older adults who are struggling with anxiety and depression. They also offer a sense of security which older adults feel they may lose as they grow older. At the end of the day, it is about the companionship that pets offer to their owners.
Pets Keep Residents Active
Most independent living communities encourage their residents to stay active in old age by introducing a plethora of senior living activities and events on site. Apart from this, they also understand how pets can also support activity in older adults. The communities come with beautifully landscaped common spaces that are full of greenery where residents can take their pets for a walk. The areas are securely fenced up to ensure the safety of the pets where they can curiously explore the surroundings. By having the proper places to take their pets, residents will be more inclined to stay active to stay fit and healthy. They also get to meet other pet owners and have a good conversation together to stay socially engaged.
Community Pets
On top of providing companionship to their owners, pets also benefit other residents who do not own a pet. Residents can get together in the common spaces and have a great time with the different pets that other residents have brought along for their retirement. Simply petting an animal can have therapeutic effects which provide the mind a sense of calm. This is the environment that independent living communities aim to foster for the betterment of their residents in terms of mental and social health.
Things to Consider
Every independent living community has their own pet policy. Depending on the type of pet that you wish to bring along with you in retirement, the animal may or may not be accepted. Their size, breed, and other factors will be assessed to ensure that they are suitable for a community environment. This is to help maintain a healthy atmosphere that is not just safe and comfortable for pet owners and their pets, but for other residents there as well.
