Page 12 - Hampton Roads SeniorLivingGuide

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Welcome to the Spring/Summer edition of SeniorLiving Guide.com.
Our printed edition as well as our website, are designed to help you make the best senior living
decisions as we age gracefully into the future.
Mental health has recently taken a National focus. We are all aware that plenty of people today,
including seniors, live with various forms of depression and loneliness. This can increase as we
age and has had a significant impact due to Covid-19.
However, we have a solution! You can find unconditional love and boost your well-being with pet
ownership. Our furry friends are worth the time, energy and investment.
• Pets are good for your heart – High levels of cholesterol and triglycerides increase your risk
of heart disease. But studies have shown owning a pet can lower both. And owning a cat or
dog can also increase your chances of surviving a heart attack.

• Pets can lower depression – Stroking a cat or dog can lower your blood pressure and
make you feel calmer. Even playing with your pet can increase the level of dopamine in your
brain, making you feel good and providing a good laugh.
• Pets can connect you to a community – This is so true for dog owners. Daily walks will open
up more conversations with neighbors and pet owners. Not to mention that just being more
physically active forces you to spend less time on the recliner, which is better for your overall
health.
• Cats are great for seniors – If you are not able to physically walk a dog, a cat can be a
wonderful companion and a real source of comfort. Cats aren’t as independent as some folks
believe. The more time you spend with them, the more attached they become. And I have seen
in my own family how much comfort they can bring.
Of course, not everyone is able to own a pet depending on their circumstances or where they
live. However, volunteering at a shelter, fostering a pet, or even just seeking out a cat café (coffee
and cats – a win –win in my book) can help anyone feel better and maybe give you a sense of
purpose. And we all need that in life!
So live and live well! And let SeniorLivingGuide.com assist you in doing exactly that.
All the best,
Nanette

Nanette Birckbichler