Alarming lack of furry friends in aged care revealed, igniting calls for change

A recent study conducted by the Companion Animal Network Australia (CANA) has shed light on the limited access to companion animals in aged care facilities across the country.

Despite the fact that a staggering 86 per cent of older adults have reported improved mental and physical well-being when accompanied by pets in aged care environments, a mere 18 per cent of aged care facilities are willing to allow residents to keep their pets.

Trish Ennis, the Chief Executive of CANA, expressed concern over the slow progress made by the Australian government and aged care providers in understanding the enduring value of the human-animal bond for seniors.

“While we’ve always recognised the benefits of owning a pet, our survey shows the Australian government and aged care providers have been slow to understand the enduring value of the human-animal bond for older people,” Ennis said.

“There’s often a catastrophic emotional harm caused when older people are forced to give up their pets upon moving into an aged care home, and resulting in their much-loved animals being surrendered to shelters across the country.

“People are putting their lives on the line when they refuse to move into aged care because they can’t bring their pet with them. If people were allowed to keep their pets, aged care take-up by older people will increase and the number of pets being surrendered to animal shelters will decrease.”

Ellis and her colleagues are urgently calling for action to maintain the bond between older adults and their pets, reducing loneliness and preventing unnecessary separations.

Allowing aged care residents to have their pets alongside them can greatly benefit residents in multiple ways. Firstly, the companionship of a beloved pet brings comfort and emotional support, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation. Interacting with pets through petting and playing can also promote relaxation and reduce stress levels.

Pets have a positive impact on the mental and physical health of aged care residents. Regular contact with animals has been linked to improved mood, decreased rates of depression and anxiety, and increased overall well-being. Additionally, caring for pets can encourage physical activity, such as walking or playing, which contributes to better physical fitness and mobility later in life.

Moreover, pets in aged care facilities can create a lively and social environment. They become sources of joy, entertainment, and conversation for both residents and staff, fostering connections and a sense of community.