pet ownership. The love and companionship our animal friends offer can alleviate depression or loneliness. Linda Anderson, founder of the Angel Animals Network in Minneapolis, says, “Older pet owners have often told us how incredibly barren and lonely their lives were without their pet’s companionship, even when there were some downsides to owning an active pet.” Caring for a pet takes work, but for many people, the benefits greatly outweigh the challenges. An energetic dog encourages you to leave the house and go for walks, a talkative parrot makes time spent alone less lonely, and a soft cat curled up on your lap helps alleviate a stressful day. If you can’t have a pet in your home due to lease restrictions or mobility challenges, you don’t have to miss out on the benefits of being around animals. Consider volunteering at a local animal shelter. You can help PETS Sometimes, staying at home is the best option. This sentiment applies to rehabilitation just as much as it does to any other aspect of life. In-home rehab can be very different from outpatient, clinic-based rehab. While the fundamentals are the same and you’ll still be working with an experienced physical therapist, the change of environment comes with many additional benefits. IT’S A GREAT OPTION FOR ANYONE WITH MOBILITY ISSUES If you live with a chronic condition or if you are recovering from an injury, surgery, or hospital stay, there may be times when you don’t have the strength to go out. Your energy is best reserved for recovery. In-home rehab helps you save that energy for when you need it most — including during your rehab session — allowing you to recover more effectively. IT ALLOWS YOU TO STAY IN A FAMILIAR ENVIRONMENT This adds a level of personal comfort
We tend to picture energetic dogs and cats thriving in young families with children, but animals are often happy to live with older, less active adults. These kinds of homes are especially suited to older animals that might otherwise have to spend their last days in the pound. Depending on your schedule and mobility, you might not want to adopt a large dog. But small lap dogs, cuddly cats, and even birds can make a great addition to your home. As long as you do not suffer from allergies, having a pet can be great for your health. The American Heart Association says pet ownership, particularly dog ownership, may be linked to a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. Researchers found evidence to support this claim when they discovered that registered dog owners in Sweden had reduced rates of cardiovascular disease and a lower risk of death than individuals without dogs. Don’t Miss Out on the Benefits of
care for cats, dogs, and other animals while they wait for their own forever home.
There are thousands of pets in shelters across the country waiting for someone to care for them. If there’s room in your retirement plan, why not invite one into your home? You might discover both you and your new friend have something to gain.
Physical fitness is far from the only benefit of
that’s hard to beat. Plus, we recognize that sometimes, you may not feel like going out, especially during a period of recovery. You may want to keep your recovery private. IT’S IDEAL FOR ANYONE WHO LACKS TRANSPORTATION You may not have the ability to visit the clinic on a given day. Perhaps you can’t drive, either by choice or because of an injury. When we come to you, you don’t have to worry about a thing. Here’s the bottom line: In-home rehab can be a source of empowerment. When you engage in rehab in a familiar environment, it can be incredibly motivating. As you improve, you can see your return to normalcy in the way you live in your own home and as everyday tasks become easier to perform. In-home rehab and therapy is care that’s truly on your terms. If you would like to learn more about this great option, call our office. We can work with you or a loved one to determine if in-home rehab is right for you.
CAN DO FOR YOU What In-Home Rehabilitation
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