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One often overlooked factor for seniors considering moving to an assisted living community is whether their pets can join them. The Grandview of Chisholm Trail provides a luxuriously supportive retirement experience for those looking for a new senior living community in Fort Worth. The best benefit? Furry friends are welcome!
At The Grandview of Chisholm Trail, we understand that pets are family and believe that having a dog or cat in the senior years enriches individuals and the entire community. An animal can provide companionship and improved mental health for seniors living in assisted living communities.
Pet-friendly retirement communities are very common, and higher levels of senior care should also provide this amenity. Read on to learn why pet-friendly assisted living in Fort Worth might be the perfect place for you and your four-legged companion.
Understanding Retirement Communities and Assisted Living Communities
When the golden years approach, it’s important to consider the level of care needed to maintain a high quality of life. Retirement and assisted living communities can offer seniors and their families different benefits, but understanding the differences is an important part of making the right decision.
Retirement communities or independent senior living facilities generally cater to relatively independent and physically active adults. They provide an environment focused on social interaction, offering various activities and amenities that allow seniors to enjoy their golden years with minimal health care intervention.
On the other hand, assisted living communities offer a higher level of care, making them suitable for seniors requiring more support with daily activities. These senior homes are equipped to:
- Provide medical assistance
- Help with personal care
- Ensure regular social interaction
- Foster a sense of community
Long-term care insurance is frequently utilized in these settings, covering the cost of services beyond standard health care. Moreover, veterans’ benefits may also be applicable, providing financial assistance to those who have served.
While both options aim to enhance the quality of life for seniors, choosing between a retirement community and an assisted living community often depends on the individual’s health status and personal preferences. Seniors and their families must evaluate what each community offers to make the best choice.
In Fort Worth, TX, our community strikes a balance by offering pet-friendly assisted living apartments. We understand that pets can significantly contribute to the quality of life, providing emotional support, companionship, and opportunities for social interaction. Our newer community offers the necessary level of care and ensures that our residents can continue enjoying the company of their furry friends in their golden years.
Pet-Friendly Assisted Living Apartments and Amenities in Fort Worth, TX
Seniors in Fort Worth can choose from several pet-friendly apartments in our assisted living community. We also offer plenty of outdoor space so your pup can get daily exercise and fresh air.
The community includes paved walking paths, so dog owners don’t have to worry about muddy paws after a walk. Enclosed courtyards allow pets ample room to socialize, explore, and sniff.
We take pride in providing residents with resort-style amenities to live comfortably with their pets at The Grandview of Chisholm Trail. Our spacious apartments offer more than enough room for residents and their furry friends.
With all these features designed specifically for people with pets, it’s easy to see why our assisted living community in Fort Worth is an excellent choice for senior living. Our community is not only convenient but luxurious, too.
The modern assisted living amenities in your new home include:
- Onsite restaurant and chef-prepared meals
- Movie theater
- Fitness center
- Salon and spa
- Library, lounge, and game room
- Gardening areas
Only a few other luxury senior living communities in Fort Worth offer this kind of convenience or atmosphere.
Assisted Living is Less Restrictive than Nursing Homes
Assisted living is generally less restrictive regarding having a pet than nursing homes in Fort Worth. Animals have particular needs that are only sometimes easy to accommodate when owners are injured or immobile.
Skilled nursing care is usually reserved for people who cannot live independently due to a chronic condition or health problem. An assisted living community’s goal is to keep seniors from needing to visit nursing homes.
Although many believe that pets provide immeasurable love and comfort, the rules and regulations in nursing homes and skilled nursing facilities often don’t allow for animals. This measure protects staff members and elderly residents.
Nursing homes are medical facilities that must keep a safe and healthy environment. That includes protection against allergens, diseases, and pets as possible vectors for illness delivery. Pets may cause disruption and pose safety concerns to those living there who cannot walk or are prone to falls.
However, while nursing home residents can’t keep pets, most seniors still enjoy interacting with visiting therapy dogs. Residents at The Grandview of Chisholm Trail who do not have a pet or live in memory care regularly receive visits with therapy animals.
Our assisted living community also provides many senior care services. The care team helps residents with daily living activities so they have more time and energy to play with their furry friends. Medication management and physical therapy are also available.
We are happy to discuss any specific questions regarding bringing pets into our assisted living community. Our team members are pleased to provide information about local veterinarians and pet care services. We’d also like to share some information for seniors who don’t have a pet yet.
What pets are best for older adults?
As we age, the companionship and love of a pet can bring immense joy and benefits. However, not all pets are suitable for everyone. The best pet for seniors depends on various factors such as their lifestyle, physical health, and personal preferences.
While the specific breeds listed below are cute and cuddly, don’t forget your local animal shelter has numerous sweet babies, all looking for a loving home in a new senior living community.
- Dogs: Known as man’s best friend, dogs offer loyalty and companionship. Smaller breeds like Bichon Frise or Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are often a good fit for seniors due to their manageable size and friendly disposition. They require walks, which can help seniors stay active.
- Cats: Independent yet affectionate, cats make great pets for those who prefer less active animals. Breeds such as the British Shorthair or Ragdoll are known for their calm demeanor and adaptability to indoor living.
- Birds: Birds, particularly budgies or canaries, can be an excellent choice. They require minimal physical interaction but provide lively companionship with their songs and chatter.
- Fish: Watching fish swim in an aquarium can be soothing, helping reduce stress. They require the least physical care, making them suitable for seniors with mobility issues.
- Robotic animals: Seniors with Alzheimer’s or dementia may be unable to care for a living pet. However, robotic animals of all kinds can provide comfort and companionship.
The Benefits of Owning a Pet in Senior Living
Having a pet in older age offers many benefits beyond companionship. Owning a dog can help seniors stay active by motivating them to take regular walks. Additional movement helps with mobility and balance issues. Reducing stress and anxiety levels also comes with pet ownership.
Older adults who own cats or dogs tend to be healthier and happier overall than those who don’t own a four-legged friend. Most senior pet owners enjoy caring for animals to stick to a routine and feel important.
With all these benefits, it’s no wonder why many seniors choose to keep their loyal companions when moving into an assisted living community. Feel free to check out the Crowley Animal Shelter or the Animal Hope shelter to adopt a senior pet near you.
A lot of evidence says that having a pet can:
- Reduce stress
- Lower blood pressure
- Decrease feelings of loneliness
- Curb depression
- Encourage socialization
At The Grandview of Chisholm Trail, our community encourages seniors to bring their beloved pets when they move in. We understand that pets are family members, too. We want to ensure our residents’ furry friends are just as well taken care of as they are.
Our spacious grounds provide ample space for pets while our team works hard to ensure every resident feels right at home.
Frequently Asked Questions about Pets in Assisted Living
Q: What types of pets are allowed in assisted living communities?
A: Every community has its pet policy, but typically small dogs, cats, birds, and fish are accepted. It’s important to check with the specific facility for their rules regarding pet size, breed, and number of pets allowed per resident.
Q: How does an assisted living community help seniors care for their pets?
A: Many assisted living communities help with pet care as part of their services. This can include help with feeding, grooming, walking, and even managing veterinary appointments. However, the level of pet care offered can vary between facilities, so it’s recommended to inquire about this when touring potential communities.
Q: Are there any pet-friendly amenities or activities in assisted living communities?
A: Yes! Many communities understand pets’ vital role in residents’ lives and provide pet-friendly amenities. These can include designated pet areas, pet therapy sessions, social events involving pets, and even on-site pet grooming services.
Q: Can pets visit if they don’t live in the community?
A: Most assisted living communities encourage family members to bring pets during visits, recognizing the joy and comfort they bring. However, each community may have its own set of rules regarding visiting pets, including leash requirements and designated pet-friendly areas.
Q: What should I consider when bringing a pet to an assisted living community?
A: Consider your pet’s age, health, temperament, and care needs. Is your pet comfortable in new environments? Can they adapt to changes easily? Also, consider whether you’ll be able to care for your pet with your current health status or with the aid provided by the community.
Remember, our team is always ready to address any other questions or concerns you might have about bringing your beloved pet into our assisted living community. We believe pets significantly enhance our residents’ quality of life, and we’re committed to making our community a welcoming place for all your family members.
The Grandview of Chisholm Trail is One of the Newest Pet-Friendly Senior Living Communities in Fort Worth, Texas
If you’re searching for new senior living communities near you, look no further than The Grandview of Chisholm Trail. Contact us today to learn more about how you can make this pet-friendly luxury retirement community yours!
