Pets and Older Adults: Companionship and Practical Considerations
Pets can bring companionship, routine and reasons to get moving. Here is how to choose a pet that fits your lifestyle, budget and abilities, and how to plan ahead.
The short version
- Pets offer companionship and daily routine for many people.
- Consider costs, energy level, size and your physical abilities before adopting.
- Make a plan for your pet's care if you become ill or travel.
In this guide
For many people, a pet is a beloved member of the family. Dogs, cats, birds and other animals can offer companionship, a sense of purpose and a daily routine. Walking a dog adds activity to your day and often leads to conversations with neighbors. At the same time, pets are a long-term commitment, so it is worth thinking through the practical side before bringing one home.
Questions to ask yourself
- How much energy do I have? Puppies and young dogs need a lot of exercise and training. Adult and senior pets are often calmer.
- What are my physical abilities? Consider whether you can comfortably walk, lift, groom and bend down to care for the animal.
- How much space do I have? Check whether your housing allows pets and if there are size or breed restrictions.
- What is my budget? Food, veterinary care, grooming, supplies and pet insurance add up.
- How long will this pet likely live? Some cats live 15 years or more, and some birds live for decades.
- Who can help if I travel, become ill or need to move?
Choosing the right pet
Adult or senior dogs and cats are often a good match for older adults. Their personalities are already known, many are house-trained and they tend to be less energetic than young animals. Many shelters offer reduced adoption fees for older pets or for older adopters.
Small dogs are easier to lift and manage, but very small dogs can be a tripping hazard. Medium-sized calm breeds may be a good balance.
Cats are generally more independent and do not need to be walked.
Birds and fish can provide companionship with less physical care, though some birds are noisy and need a lot of attention.
Safety tips
- Prevent trips and falls. Keep pet toys off the floor, use night lights and know where your pet is before you walk. A bell on the collar can help.
- Use a front-clip harness for dogs that pull, and consider training classes.
- Keep food and water bowls out of walkways.
- Wash hands after handling pets, litter boxes and pet waste.
- Keep vaccinations and parasite prevention current for your pet.
Managing the costs
- Ask shelters about low-cost adoption programs for seniors.
- Look for low-cost vaccine clinics and spay/neuter programs.
- Compare pet insurance options or set aside a monthly amount for vet care.
- Some communities have pet food banks for people with limited incomes.
- Ask your local Area Agency on Aging or humane society about assistance programs.
Plan ahead for your pet
It is a caring act to plan for your pet's future:
- Identify a trusted friend or family member who agrees to care for your pet if needed.
- Keep a pet care card in your wallet so emergency responders know you have an animal at home.
- Write down your pet's feeding schedule, medications and vet contact information.
- Consider including your pet in your estate planning. Some people set up a pet trust.
- Some shelters and organizations have programs to rehome pets when owners can no longer care for them.
If owning a pet is not right for you
You can still enjoy time with animals:
- Volunteer at an animal shelter.
- Foster pets for short periods.
- Pet-sit or walk dogs for friends and neighbors.
- Visit places with therapy animals.
