Senior Living to the Fullest!
12 tips to live your best life, starting today!
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Tip #4 | Time Spent with Pets is Never a Waste!
Time spent with pets is NEVER wasted! Owning a pet is good for the mind, body, spirit, and soul! They add a sense of purpose, joy, and unconditional love to our lives, allowing us to feel happier, healthier, and less alone. They’re more than a ball of fur that needs to be fed and watered every day, it’s the bond formed over time that builds on love and connection! Whether it’s a dog, lizard, cat, or goldfish, caring for a pet has many physical and mental health benefits for people of all ages.
Pets bring routine and structure to our days. They need to be walked, fed and loved at certain times throughout the day and by doing so, we also take care of ourselves. They depend on us. This type of repetition can be very helpful, especially for seniors dealing with cognitive decline, to find daily routines and structures. Animals have an internal clock that helps keep us on track too by forming healthy habits like getting out of bed in the morning and going for a walk every day… not to mention the added exercise we get – they keep us young, moving, playful, and on our toes.
Another benefit to owning and caring for pets is that they can help to combat depression, isolation, and loneliness, something older adults and seniors often deal with. At any age, caring for a pet can add a valuable companion to your life and you can learn a lot from them. Feeling needed and wanted can take the focus away from your problems, especially if you live alone. Dogs are a great way to engage in new conversations with people. When we go for a walk, oftentimes, other dog walkers will stop to talk – a great day to meet new people and make friends.
At Harbour Landing Village this month, we’re focusing on our cute, fluffy, and furry friends! We’re excited to welcome back one of our favorite therapy dogs from St. Johns Ambulance, Dexter! He’s been visiting us for a while now and every time he comes we light up instantly. Time spent with pets is NEVER wasted! Stay tuned for more activities and visits with our pets at the Village!
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Click this link to our activities page to see all the wonderful programs and events that
we provide our seniors OR contact us to book your tour today!