Animal-assisted therapy, also known as pet therapy, has been used in many areas for many years. Pet therapy is a popular method of mild therapy for seniors. Hospital settings use dogs in various settings to help patients, as do nursing homes, and assisted living facilities to help seniors. This type of therapy can have many benefits for different populations, especially the elderly living at home alone. The documented benefits of interaction with animals are physical, social, emotional and mental in nature. Animal therapy variations can differ depending upon the needs of the seniors. While ownership therapy, where a senior living at home has a pet in the house, is the most effective type, it is only an option for seniors in good health who are able to take care of the animal themselves.
