Numerous studies demonstrate that pet ownership benefits the elderly.
However, not all animals make good pets, and it can be dangerous for seniors if they choose the wrong animal. Immobile seniors may not benefit from dogs, and it may hurt the dog. Luckily, there are perfect pet choices for many seniors, all with various lifestyle habits. Sometimes something like a fish that’s easy to take care of can have huge mental health benefits for seniors even when they can’t move around often. Seniors may struggle with loneliness. Even when you try your best to regularly get to your aging parents, they may need more time than that. Understandably, not all grown children have the time that seniors need, and if this sounds like you, it’s time to consider home care providers for your senior parents. A pet may help during the nights and evenings when home care providers cannot be there or when you are not there for them. There are reasons why fish can be a better choice than the typical pet dog or cat.
Dogs and cats, the most popular senior pets, need daily grooming and feeding and regular exercise, which many senior pet owners cannot provide. In addition, pets such as dogs and cats may be a threat to their elderly owners, resulting in the pet inflicting more harm than good. Fish need very little of this and will not attack the senior providing care. Take a look at a few more reasons why a pet fish may be a better solution for your senior.
Fish Breeds That Can Live In Smaller Bowls
One of the many drawbacks of owning cats or dogs is that they need a lot of space. Cats may live inside only, but they still like to live in a big space. Dogs not only need a home with a lot of space, but they also need to get outside and run around, which can be a problem for seniors, especially if they have downsized their homes.
- Bettas
In addition to being little and gorgeous, Bettas (also known as Japanese fighting fish) have long, flowing tails and come in various colors. Remember to keep them alone since they will battle their bowl partner to death. There are fewer water changes and bowl cleanings needed with bettas since they are quite sanitary. - Goldfish
Goldfish are the most popular pet fish in the United States, and fancy-tailed goldfish are visually appealing. Keeping a school of fish is OK as long as your aquarium can hold the quantity of fish you’ve bought. Remember that goldfish are messy eaters. Their water becomes murky rapidly, so they aren’t a great choice unless the senior, a family member, or a caretaker often cleans the bowl. - Guppies
They may be found in various hues, including metallic ones, and like to be in groups. If you don’t buy the same sex, you’ll end up with guppy puppies before you know it, which can be overwhelming. However, these are the hardiest type of fish a senior can buy, and they can survive even with little water.
Why choose a fish as a pet? They are low maintenance, cheap, and easy to take care of. They will never trip a senior or be responsible for a fall, and they don’t need to go outside ever. Feeding requirements are easy for most fish types, and they can make super fun pets.
If you or an aging loved-one is considering Home Care in Wadsworth, OH, please contact the caring staff at Autumn Hills Home Care, LLC today. (330) 217-6090
He graduated with a Bachelor of Science from The Pennsylvania State University, and Master’s degree from The University of Akron.He is currently studying Spanish Language at the University of Akron.
He is married to Lisa, and together they have a daughter, two sons, a son-in-law, a daughter-in-law, and four grandchildren.The entire family lives in Summit County, Ohio.
In his professional career he worked in hospitals, taking several assignments in Youngstown, Pittsburgh, Cleveland, and Akron, finally settling in Akron in 1987.
His career took him into starting up two specialty hospitals in Akron, then into starting up several Home Health and Hospice programs.
Fourteen years ago he and his wife, Lisa, entered into restaurant ownership and operation.They since started “Lala’s Restaurant and Fireside Lounge” in the Portage Lakes.The restaurant has been open since November 2019, and provides residents of the area with fine food and entertainment.
Toward the end of his service in the Hospice industry, Jeff had a vision for starting a Home Care service to care for seniors in our area.After a search of franchises and other businesses, he started Autumn Hills Home Care.Through this business, he has proudly provided the best of service to seniors throughout the area, as well as meaningful employment for many caregivers.
Most recently, Jeff entered government service as was elected Trustee of Coventry Township.He was sworn in and started service in January 2020.
In his free moments, Jeff enjoys family time, bicycling, golf, learning Spanish, and travel.He can be reached at jeff.houck@outlook.com
- Everything Your Family Needs to Consider About Aging at Home - May 12, 2022
- How Your Senior Parent Can Benefit From 24 Hour Home Care - April 29, 2022
- National Garden Month: Celebrate the Benefits of Gardening Together - April 11, 2022
