Tag Archive for: senior health

Pets Provide Seniors Numerous Health Benefits

There is no questioning the fact that pet ownership for seniors provides numerous health benefits. From increased activity to companionship, owning a pet if you are a senior will increase your quality of life. As friends and family move away throughout life, a pet will always be there providing their unconditional love.  Additionally, dogs and cats live in the NOW, never worrying about what tomorrow will bring, sometimes a scary thought for many seniors.

In a recent article from Aging Care they give tips on finding the right pet for you. “While the advantages of pet ownership are undeniable, there are some drawbacks and consequences to be aware of before going out to adopt a furry friend for an aging loved one. Dr. Donnenfeld encourages seniors and caregivers to work through the following questions before welcoming a pet into the family.”

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Yes, Cooking Can Boost Your Mood

Just in time for the holidays, scientists have discovered that, yes, cooking and baking can boost your mood. A little creativity in the kitchen every day can go a long way towards happiness and satisfaction in the bustle of daily life.

“The study, published in the Journal of Positive Psychology, suggests that people who frequently take a turn at small, creative projects report feeling more relaxed and happier in their everyday lives. The researchers followed 658 people for about two weeks and found that doing small, everyday things like cooking and baking made the group feel more enthusiastic about their pursuits the next day.”

“Baking can help boost one’s mood by providing small tasks to focus on in a manner similar to meditating. In order to put together a good meal, cooks have to be constantly in the moment, adding ingredients, adjusting the heat of the stove and tasting their food to make sure everything will come out alright—all of which can be helpful techniques in treating some forms of mental illness”, wrote Huma Qureshi for The Guardian in 2013.

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