Did you know that caring for a pet is one of the healthiest things you can do for your body? Most dog owners meet the recommended weekly amount of exercise. Caring for a pet can also do wonders for your mental and emotional health.
For many seniors, taking their pets with them into retirement is an important factor to consider. This is true for residents of Ridgeland, which is known for its embrace of pet-friendly spaces. It’s important to make sure your specific community allows residents to bring their furry pals along.
Here’s why pet-friendly independent living is important and what to look for in your next community.
The Value of Aging With Animals
For many older adults, pets are not only companions. They are part of the family. As such, senior living with pets is a priority for those who have them.
The decision to bring a beloved animal along to a new residence can influence whether a senior feels comfortable in their new home. It can help them feel more secure and emotionally supported.
Aging with animals brings benefits like:
- Emotional support
- Mental stimulation
- Physical activity
- Social interaction
The daily interaction with a pet provides routine and purpose. These are both important for staving off depression and cognitive decline. Interacting with pets goes hand-in-hand with memory care.
Walking a dog or even playing with a cat encourages mobility, which supports physical health. Better mobility also translates to a reduced risk of falling.
Emotional Support Pets and Senior Mental Health
While many seniors already own pets as companions, others rely on them as emotional support pets. These animals help lessen symptoms of:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Other mental health conditions
They’re particularly common in individuals adjusting to the emotional and social shifts that come with aging.
These animals do not need special training like service animals. However, a licensed mental health professional does need to approve them. This can affect their legal status and protection when seeking housing.
In pet-friendly independent living settings, emotional support animals are accommodated with fewer hurdles. Many senior communities are also updating their policies to allow for them.
What Pet-Friendly Independent Living Offers
Pet-friendly independent living options go beyond allowing pets to reside there. They often include features and amenities designed to actively support a lifestyle that integrates pets into daily routines.
Typical offerings in these spaces include:
- Walking trails
- Green spaces for outdoor play
- Pet-friendly community events
- Indoor pet policies
- Close access to veterinarian services
All walking trails are safe and maintained for both seniors and their pets to navigate. They make daily exercise easy and accessible for everyone in the community.
Pet waste stations ensure communities stay clean while supporting responsible pet ownership. There may also be clear guidelines on acceptable pet sizes, breeds, and care expectations.
Not all independent living communities provide veterinarian partnerships. It’s important to make sure you move into one within close proximity to a vet’s office.
Key Traits of Pet-Friendly Housing
Keep in mind that you’ll want a pet-friendly interior in addition to those exterior amenities.
A pet-friendly home may include features such as:
- Durable and easy-to-clean flooring
- Spacious layout
- Pet doors or enclosed patios
- Secure windows and screens
- Low-traffic location
- A refundable pet deposit or modest monthly pet rent
Hardwood, vinyl, or tile floors resist scratches. They’re easy to clean up after accidents or shedding. Avoid carpet where possible, especially if you have pets prone to messes or dander.
A spacious layout allows pets to move around comfortably. An enclosed yard provides the same benefits for them and lets them get some extra sun.
Another feature to consider is easy washer and dryer access. In-unit laundry makes it easier to clean pet blankets, toys, or soiled items regularly.
Ridgeland Senior Life and Pet Companionship
Ridgeland, Mississippi, offers an appealing blend of:
- Southern charm
- Access to nature
- Urban convenience
This balance extends to how the city approaches senior living with pets. The broader community supports aging pet ownership in multiple ways.
Pet-friendly parks such as the Reservoir Overlook provide plenty of green space for pups to explore. The Freedom Ridge Park offers well-maintained walking tracks and open spaces.
Seniors can also expect to find access to various veterinary clinics and pet stores.
Challenges and Considerations
The advantages of owning a pet are clear. However, there are still important considerations when evaluating pet-friendly housing options, such as:
- Pet size and breed restrictions
- Noise policies
- Resident allergies
- Pet care responsibility
Not every dog or cat is the best choice for seniors. Some dogs are more vocal than others, and long-haired cats may shed too much for one person to handle. Your community may also not allow certain dog breeds, such as pitbulls or dobermans.
Many communities offer guidance during the application process. They can help determine whether or not the living environment is suitable for the pet and its owner.
In some cases, family members or caregivers may need to assist with ongoing care.
The Future of Pet-Friendly Independent Living
The rising demand for senior living with pets reflects a larger cultural shift in how people view aging and quality of life. Before, retirement was seen as a time to downsize and let go. Now, seniors want to retain meaningful aspects of their lifestyle, including their animal companions.
Many independent living communities factor in pet-friendliness into their core values. For seniors in Ridgeland, this means more choice, better amenities, and communities that understand their emotional needs.
Growing Old With Your Pets
Pet-friendly independent living isn’t a necessity for some seniors, but it is for those with furry family members. Many seniors refuse to part with their pets, and they don’t always have family who can take care of them. Therefore, finding a pet-friendly community can mean the world to them.
SummerHouse Beau Ridge provides both independent senior living and memory care in the Ridgeland area. Our residents can continue pursuing their existing hobbies and interests, stay healthy, and embrace their independence. Reach out today to learn more about our amenities and floor plans or to schedule a tour of our community.
