While Australian households have one of the highest rates of pet ownership in the world, this doesn’t carry through to many seniors’ living and aged care services, according to a study by the Animal Welfare League of Australia (AWLA). This is at detriment to our seniors, as there are many documented benefits of pet ownership. 

While 63% of Australian households are pet owners, only 18% of residential aged care facilities allow pets to reside with their owners. Those ageing in their own home can’t always access the support to keep their pets either. According to the study, only 9% of in-home services say they offer pet-friendly services.

Sadly, the result is that many seniors are forced to surrender their beloved family pets, when they make the move.

According AWLA, 7% of surrenders are  related to a senior needing to move to a seniors’ living or aged care facility. This statistic is believed to be higher when taking in other issues facing senior pet owners. Examples of this includes unsuitable pet accommodation and lack of financial means to take care of a pet. An estimated 9,600 surrenders to the RSPCA were elderly-related.

Benefits of pet friendly seniors’ living communities

Communities and facilities that support and encourage pet ownership may not yet be the majority, the wide-ranging health benefits of pets for seniors is well documented.

Pet ownership helps to decrease feelings of loneliness and isolation, while increasing social interaction, providing purpose and meaning and improving the quality of life of their owners.

Some further benefits of pet friendly communities include:

• Eases the transition of moving from their home
• Reduces feelings of loneliness
• Health benefits include reduced stress and anxiety, lower blood pressure and increased aerobic activity
• Reduces animal surrender rates to shelters
• Helps increase feelings of independence
• Boosts morale and happiness for both staff and residents

Pets at Seasons Communities

Many Seasons residents report knowing they could bring their pets along with them, was a key reason they chose to move there. All Seasons community locations are pet-friendly. We understand that your furry friend is part of your family and welcome pet cats, dogs, birds or fish.