Older parents often need a little assistance getting around the house as they age at home, but families are often baffled when they have to start taking Mom’s dog out for walks, too. Balancing pet care duties along with all the other caregiving responsibilities can be a burden, but there are ways to make sure that an elderly still has the company of a furry friend.
Safety should be one major consideration, however. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that almost 90,000 Americans fall each year, because they trip over a pet or accessories for a pet, according to FloridaToday.com.
Still, the health benefits may outweigh the potential hazards. Owning pets encourages seniors to take them outside and go on walks more often. Animals also offer companionship throughout the day.
If families are struggling to juggle the needs of a pet with a loved one, it may be time to hire some help. Home care assistants can provide both pet and senior care, while also driving older adults to doctor’s appointments, grocery stories and other amenities. These experienced professionals also help around the house with food preparation and cleaning.