According to a recent study, 86% of pet owners surveyed said their pets mostly have a positive impact on their mental health. The benefits of pet ownership have long been known. Researchers say that pet owners get a jolt of oxytocin from interacting with dogs, and some studies show that pet parents have healthier hearts, are less depressed, and get more exercise. So if you think pet owners will leave their furry buddies behind when they enter senior living, think again, which presents some exciting opportunities for senior living communities.

When we design senior living communities today, our focus begins with the people who will call these places home. We aim to see the environment through their eyes—anticipating the lifestyles, preferences, and aspirations they bring with them. And to do that effectively, we must look beyond chronological age and consider subjective age—how old someone feels and identifies.

As people were isolated during the pandemic, many turned to pets for companionship and comfort. In fact, adoption rates surged in the past year. This presents some exciting opportunities for your senior living community.