Is there such a thing as growing old successfully? It is however a reality to life, it is something we all face and we all have our own opinions on the topic. Some look at growing old as a hassle, a reminder of our increasing physically and mental decline, and the withdrawal from society. And then others few it as something beautiful. Where does the truth lie? I think each persons experience of growing old will be unique, different for us all. Old age can be characterized by increasing losses; physical health, loss of income, and the break down of social relationships.
It does not surprise me the positive impact animals can have on the elderly. Craig & Mountain (2007) report when dogs were introduced to group activities in a rest home verbal interactions increased significantly with the presence of a dog. Animals, in this situation dogs, provide a comfort environment that conducive to the therapeutic goal of facilitating social interactions.
While Craig & Mountain (2007) focused on social interaction Banks & Banks (2002) were interested in whether animals can improve loneliness within the elderly population for long term care facilities. Using a UCLA.LS loneliness scale results revealed a positive trend that the presence of an animal reduces loneliness among residents in long term care facilities.
It saddens me when I visit my Grandma in her rest home, she is 86 years old, functional and cognitively manages higher than many her age. However for many residents in the same rest home it is a different story. Unable to provide you with an expression when you say "hello" or "nice day isn't it". Robb, Boyd & Pristash (1980) investigated the effects of specific objects in fostering social interactions among elderly. Objects such as wine bottle, plant and a caged puppy were presented in a sequence to elderly residents. It was the caged puppy which received the most attention. Responding through social behaviors, such as verbalizes, smiles, looking toward the object, open eyes and leaning towards the cage. These results suggest, bringing a puppy/dog to a group session with elderly increase their social behavior. They are more likely engage in conversation, and appear more interested (Robb, Boyd & Pristash, 1980).
These studies indicate the positive influence which animals have for elderly. I can understand how it would be incredible hard to accept your life is now changing. My Grandma is often telling me to "enjoy life while you are young, theres so many things you cant do when you get old". The simple presence from an animal can spark a little bit more life out of individuals reflecting on the past, and things they wish they had of done.
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Reference List
Bustad. I.. K. (1980). Animals aging and the aged. Minneapolis, MN: University of Minnesota Press.
Craig, C. & Mountain, G. (2007). Lifestyle matters: An occupational approach to healthy ageing. UK: Speechmark Publishing Ltd.
Robb, S, Boyd, M., & Pristash, C. L. (1980). A wine bottle.plant, and purpy-caralysts for social behavior. Journal of Gerontological Nursing. 6. 721-720.
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