According to the Pew Research Center, about half of pet owners in the US (51%) not only consider their pets to be a part of their family but say they are as much a part of their family as a human member. As such, many people aren't willing to part with their pets, even as they get older.
The unconditional love and companionship of a dog, cat, or even a small bird can make all the difference in a senior's day-to-day life. At Discovery Commons San Ramon, we understand the deep bond between residents and their beloved pets.
Our community is located in San Ramon, CA, a city known for its scenic beauty, low crime rate, and abundant recreational opportunities. If you're looking for pet-friendly assisted living, our community could be the perfect solution.
Let's explore why our pet-friendly philosophy is so important and what makes San Ramon an ideal setting for pet lovers in their golden years.
Pets bring joy, comfort, and purpose. In an assisted living setting, those benefits are magnified, helping residents live happier, healthier lives. Here are some of the most impactful ways pets enhance the assisted living experience:
Animal companionship is known to help with emotional stability and reduce feelings of loneliness, especially during major transitions like moving to assisted living. The familiar presence of a pet can ease anxiety and help seniors feel more grounded in their new environment.
Residents often describe their pets as a source of unconditional love, which is especially comforting as they adjust to a new chapter in life. This companionship that comes with aging with pets can reduce stress and improve overall mood on a daily basis.
Pets are natural ice-breakers. Whether it's sharing stories about pets or taking walks with other residents, pet-inclusive living encourages interaction and social bonding. These small, daily connections often blossom into meaningful friendships among both people and pets!
At Discovery Commons San Ramon, we offer events and shared spaces where residents and their pets can socialize, building a true sense of community. These social interactions can be very beneficial to the well-being of our residents.
Walking a dog or playing with a cat helps keep residents active. Even simple tasks like feeding or grooming a pet can increase mobility and promote a sense of routine. Staying active is incredibly important for seniors, and this helps you do it in a way you enjoy.
Pets bring spontaneity, playfulness, and variety into daily life. These experiences help stimulate the mind, boost cognitive functioning, and bring moments of joy and laughter. For residents living with early signs of dementia or memory loss, pets can also act as gentle reminders of familiar routines.
Caring for a pet (even in a small way) gives seniors a renewed sense of responsibility and purpose. This can include:
In this way, pets help residents maintain structure and stay engaged with the world around them.
Transitioning to assisted living with a pet can feel overwhelming, but with a little planning and support, it can be a smooth and positive experience. Here are some helpful tips to make the move easier for both you and your furry companion:
Bring your pet to visit the community in advance, if possible. Allow them to explore the space, sniff around, and get used to new sights and sounds. Familiarity can greatly reduce stress for both of you on move-in day.
Pack your pet's favorite toys, bedding, food bowls, and treats in an easily accessible box. When you explore our senior housing with pets, you'll see it's warm and welcoming, but familiarity can make it easier for pets to adjust. Having these items available right away helps pets feel secure during the transition.
Before moving, review the specific pet policy of the assisted living community. At Discovery Commons San Ramon, we welcome many types of pets, but certain size or breed restrictions may apply. We also require pets to be up-to-date on vaccinations and in good health.
Understanding the policy helps ensure a smooth approval process.
Pets thrive on consistency. Try to maintain their regular schedule for feeding, walking, and playtime throughout the move. Keeping a sense of normalcy helps ease the adjustment.
Just like people, pets need time to acclimate to new environments. They won't have the same understanding of the change as you do, which can make things more difficult for them.
Be patient and offer reassurance through cuddles, praise, and calm energy. If your pet seems stressed, talk to our team. We're happy to offer suggestions or support.
Take part in community events designed for residents and their pets. It's a great way to meet others, make connections, and let your pet socialize too. Our pet-friendly programs create a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Our San Ramon community isn't just about allowing pets, it's about embracing the relationship between people and their animals. Here's how we make it work:
Moving to assisted living doesn't mean leaving your pet or your lifestyle behind. At Discovery Commons San Ramon, we've created a space where seniors and their pets can continue to enjoy life side by side, with compassion, care, and community all around them.
Beyond our pet-friendly assisted living, we also offer other benefits such as a varied activity calendar, quality amenities, and restaurant-style dining. Contact us today to schedule a tour of our community.