Aging In Place Directory

#60 - Aging in Place with Pets: Creating a Safe Environment for Both

• Esther C Kane CAPS, C.D.S. • Episode 60

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The bond between humans and their animal companions takes on special significance as we age. A wet nose nudging your hand or a warm body curled at your feet isn't just comforting—it's life-enhancing. Scientific research confirms what pet owners already know: sharing your home with an animal companion lowers blood pressure, combats loneliness, encourages physical activity, and significantly reduces depression and anxiety symptoms.

But what happens when both you and your furry friend begin facing age-related challenges? Creating a safe, accommodating environment becomes a shared journey. From mobility hazards like scattered toys and slippery floors to the increasing difficulty of once-routine tasks like bathing a large dog or changing a litter box, aging in place with pets presents unique considerations.

We explore practical solutions that benefit everyone under your roof. Just as we adapt our environment for our changing needs, our senior pets benefit from thoughtful adjustments too.

Subscribe to our channel for more aging in place insights and visit the Aging in Place Directory for comprehensive resources to help you and your beloved pet continue thriving together at home.

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Speaker 1:

Hello and welcome to another episode of the Aging in Place Directory podcast, the show that brings you the latest insight, tips and stories about living comfortably and happily at home, no matter your age. I'm your host, robin Schiltz, and today I have a topic that's as heartwarming as it is important aging in place with pets and creating a safe environment for both. Important aging in place with pets and creating a safe environment for both. So, whether you share your home with a spry little terrier, a napping tabby cat, a talkative parrot or even something a bit more exotic, today's episode is all about making life safer and more joyful for both you and your furry, leathery or scaly companions. Grab a cup of tea, give your pet a scratch behind the ears and let's dive in. Let's start at the heart of the matter.

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Why are pets so important as we age? For many, a pet is more than just company they're part of the family. Science backs this up. Studies show that having pets can lower blood pressure, reduce loneliness, boost activity levels and even decrease depression and anxiety. For older adults living alone, a pet can be an anchor of routine, a source of unconditional love and sometimes the reason to smile during tough days. And, of course, there's just something about a wet nose in your hand, a warm body at your feet or a bird's cheerful chirp to start your morning. But as our needs evolve with age and our pets' needs change throughout their lives, creating a safe, accommodating environment becomes a shared project, which brings us to our first big question what does aging in place mean for people and pets?

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Well, aging in place is about staying in your own home, safely and independently for as long as possible. For pet owners, this means more than grab bars and non-slip rugs. It means thinking about your animal friends, their daily routines, their health and their safety as well. The home isn't just your domain, it's theirs as well. Obstacles that you both face are stairs, slippery floors, tight spaces. Even these can be challenging for pets as they age. Adapting your space is about supporting independence for every living creature under your roof, and preparing for successful aging in place involves planning for both yourself and your pets, so everyone continues to thrive safely and comfortably together.

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So now, how about the risks and challenges? I mean what could go wrong? Well, before we talk about solutions, let's get honest about the challenges. I mean what could go wrong? Well, before we talk about solutions, let's get honest about the challenges. Here are some of the most common risks that come with aging in place with pets. The first is mobility hazards Tripping over pets or belongings a cat on the stairs or a dog toy on the floor can cause a nasty fall, more so for those with impaired balance or vision. And then slippery floors with hard surfaces can send both you and your pet sliding, especially as joints get creaky.

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There's accessibility. Pet needs outgrow human abilities. Scoop a 60-pound dog into a tub, chase a cat under the bed tasks that were once routine can become difficult as we age. Then there's medical needs, both human and pet health. Sudden illness, surgery or chronic issues can make caring for a pet harder or leave an animal unchecked for injuries and illness. Then there's routine disruptions. Changes in routine, whether due to health episodes, visits from caregivers or home renovations, can stress pets and lead to problems like house soiling or hiding. Things like emergency preparedness is another thing to consider. What if you can't get home? Who takes care of your pet if you're hospitalized or you're stuck away somewhere due to the weather? Remember, these risks are not being talked about to scare you, but to prepare you.

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So now let's open the toolbox and talk practical solutions. First, you want to declutter and organize. Keep pet toys and bowls off of traffic paths. Use baskets or bins and avoid leaving things around where they can be tripped over. Secure rugs and cords. Taping down the edges stops both paws and feet from slipping. You want to have non-slip mats available for everyone, so place mats in high traffic areas, near food and water and where pets like to nap. And then there are stair gates For pets or owners who struggle with stairs. Gates can limit access to dangerous areas. Then how about self-feeding and watering? Use elevated bowls for large or stiff pets, because it's easier for those who have arthritis, and use automatic water fountains. It keeps pets hydrated and means less bending over.

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For you, here are some litter box and potty solutions. Some litter box and potty solutions Get low-sided litter boxes Cats with arthritis will thank you. And then use indoor grass pads or puppy pads for dogs when walks are tough due to weather or your health. Also, consider pet ramps and doors For pet ramps, over stairs, into beds, onto couches. Ramps make moving easier for pets with mobility issues and mean less lifting for owners. And then secure pet doors. You want to be sure that the doors are lockable and weatherproof, avoiding security risks.

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As far as grooming and hygiene, how about non-slip bath mats for bath time, which prevents slipping for both of you? Or use mobile groomers or in-home services, because it's less stress and less lifting for you. Also, consider vet care at home. Many areas now have vets who make home visits, minimizing the need to travel and making routine care much easier. As always, lighting matters, so night lights along hallways are beneficial for both pets and humans when navigating in the dark, especially for older animals or people with declining vision. There's also smart home tech available now. Pet cameras keep an eye on furry friends when you're away, and automated feeders are perfect for when you're out for appointments.

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Have emergency plans. Identify someone in your life who is a pet care buddy, a trusted neighbor, a friend or a relative who can step in if you're not able to be there. Get emergency supplies and stock up Extra food, medications and a list of instructions. Put them easily found in an obvious place, and get pet rescue alert stickers which inform first responders that you have pets needing rescue in case of a fire or an emergency evacuation. When it comes time to making your home safer for both you and your pet, small changes add up and it's worth the peace of mind.

Speaker 1:

So now let's talk about adapting as needs change, both yours and your pets, as we age. We're not the only ones who slow down. Our pets do as well. Keep an eye out for changes in mobility, appetite and behavior in both yourself and your animal companion. Here are signs your pet may need accommodations If they hesitate going up and down stairs, if they have difficulty jumping onto favorite spots, if you're seeing increased accidents inside the house, if they're reluctant to play or move around, or if they show fear or anxiety when routines shift. Just as we adapt our environment and routines for ourselves, our pets, especially our senior pets, benefit from similar adjustments. So work with your veterinary team, schedule regular checkups, ask about supplements or medications for joint support, and discuss changes in diet suited to aging animals, to aging animals. And as far as adapting your own routine, consider flexible walking schedules with shorter, more frequent outings, and allow for play and grooming at times when you feel best each day. Communication is the key with your doctor, with your vet and with loved ones, so everyone is on the same page.

Speaker 1:

That said, there may come a time when you need extra support. That could mean getting professional pet care, like pet sitters or dog walkers. It could mean assisted living for pet owners. Some communities allow companion animals, so always ask, and then family and friends. Don't be afraid to ask them for help. Caring for a beloved pet can be a group effort For some. Tough decisions can arise on rehoming a pet if health no longer permits adequate care. Planning ahead can ease this process, ensuring your animal companion is placed with someone who will love and care for them should that become necessary.

Speaker 1:

And a side note here consider your age if you're adopting a pet. It's much better for you if you're in your 80s to adopt a pet who is also a senior than maybe a puppy or a kitten. First of all, they're higher energy, a puppy or a kitten, so it's harder for you to have them around because they're so energetic. But if you were to get sick and have to go into assisted living and you couldn't bring your pet, that means that you're either having to rehome a young pet or you're having your family have to take care of the pet, and that isn't always feasible. So it's often better to have a more sedate but still loving and fun companion who's a senior, just like you, rather than a very energetic kitten or puppy. All right, let's talk about a story that really brings all of this to life.

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Last month I spoke with Mary, who's 78 and lives with her loyal Labrador, shadow. After a fall left her in rehab for three weeks. It was her neighbor, her pet care buddy, who stepped in, caring for Shadow and keeping Mary updated with daily texts and photos. When Mary returned home, shadow greeted her with such happiness that Mary swears her healing sped up. She told me that having Shadow here makes getting older a lot less scary. He's my reason to get up and keep going. And then there's George, a retiree with a mischievous cat named Clover. After installing a series of pet ramps from the living room to Clover's favorite window porch, george found his own joints benefited from less bending and stretching. Turns out we're both getting old, he said. Clover keeps me company and I make life comfortable for her.

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Stories like these are a reminder that aging in place isn't just about where you live, but how you live and who you share your life with. So here are some quick tips for safe homes with pets Keep pet IDs and photos current for both every day and emergencies. Choose pet food and medication storage that's easy to open but secure. Maintain regular grooming for pets, because shedding fur can be a slipping hazard. Keep emergency contacts like the vet, pet sitter and family numbers, where you and others can find them easily. Here are some resources worth exploring Check your local Meals on Wheels to see if they have a pet food program.

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Consider using therapy animal organizations for social visits if you don't think you are able to have a pet.

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There are senior centers that offer pet friendly outings and activities, and there's online directories of mobile vets and pet care services that can help come to your home instead of making you go to them. So, as you can see, aging in place can be an adventure. It's sometimes challenging, often a little messy, and usually accompanied by the pitter-patter of paws or the flutter of feathers. With the right planning, thoughtful adjustments and a little help from our community, we can ensure that our homes remain safe, happy and nurturing places for every member of our family, whether they're two-legged or four. If you enjoyed today's episode, please subscribe to our channel for more helpful tips about aging in place, and don't forget to check out the Aging in Place directory for more resources, guides and support to help you and your pet live your best life at home. So thanks for tuning in and until next time, give your pet an extra treat and remember every day shared together is a gift. Till the next time, take care. Bye.

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Esther C. Kane, CAPS, C.D.S.

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