Think you’re too old for puppy love? Not according to many senior living centers across the U.S. USA Today claims “the pitter-patter of little feet is an increasingly common sound at nursing homes and senior-living residences.” Many nursing homes and elder care residences either allow residents to bring their pets with them when they settle into their new home or have pets that were rescued from local animal shelters and now reside full time in the facility as part of the senior community. Not only are pets a cherished member of the family, providing a loving connection and familiar presence in a new environment but pets may also help seniors transition more smoothly into a new phase of their lives by offering a natural opportunity to interact with other residents and staff.

Whether a senior is able to live independently or is resident of a senior care facility, caring for a pet may help a senior stay active and engaged by establishing daily routines, such as feeding times, walking their dog outside, changing their cat’s litter box or even play time with their pet.

The Pets for the Elderly Foundation believes so strongly that “pets offer affection, unconditional love, fight loneliness, and can help ease the loss of a loved one” that the non-profit charity will even “pay a portion of the pet adoption fee, when a senior citizen (persons age 60+) adopts a companion pet from one of our 52 participating shelters in 29 states.”

Of course, not everyone can or wants to share their golden years with animals, so it is important to ask about any pet policies before moving into a new assisted living residence or nursing home. Some seniors may choose to keep their living quarters a pet-free zone but enjoy interacting with community dogs, cats or birds in the residents’ common areas, while seniors who suffer from allergies may need to live in a totally pet-free environment.

When you or a family member is no longer able to live independently and you are interested in learning more about assisted living services and facilities in California, including any pet policies, please contact CalRegistry.