Pets are Great Companions for Seniors

Research has shown pets are beneficial to seniors. A Place for Mom’s website reports on one study, which found “15 minutes spent bonding with an animal sets off a chemical chain reaction in the brain, lowering levels of the fight-or-flight hormone cortisol and increasing production of the feel-good hormone serotonin. The result: heart rate, blood pressure and stress levels immediately drop.” Researchers explain interactions between human and pets can lower cholesterol levels, fight depression and may even help protect against heart disease and stroke.

Pets can teach seniors to live in the here and now as they do, and dogs and cats are great at offering their owners unconditional love, emotional support and affection. In fact animals uplift the spirits of those in hospitals, convalescent homes, mental health centers, and nursing homes and assisted living communities through pet therapy programs. Moreover pet therapy has proven beneficial for people with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Experts point to the animal’s thorough acceptance and non-verbal communication as being soothing for patients.

It was not that long ago that seniors moving into an assisted living community had to leave behind an important companion, their pet. Today however, more and more retirement communities are recognizing the benefits of pets to the elderly, and many such as MorningStar at River Oaks, allow residents to bring their pets with them. We do ask that you contact us regarding our pet policy.

Our stunning community will open to residents in late 2021 and is staffed and ready to answers your questions regarding availability, choice of suites, pricing, care services and more. MorningStar at River Oaks’ website has contact information along with lots of details and pictures of the newest assisted living Houston offers. Along with the 85 graciously appointed suites for assisted living; Reflections Neighborhood provides 27 memory care suites devoted to the individualized care of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Be sure to ask about our $5000 SAVINGS FOR EARLY DEPOSITORS.

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