What are the Best Pets for Seniors?

Fish

For seniors who may not be able to care for a dog or cat, fish can be a great choice for a pet. There are many sizes of fish tanks available, from small to very large. Fish come in many different varieties and colors, so the choice of which types to have is virtually unlimited.

Watching fish swim in a tank is very calming, and can provide a sense of comfort for an older person. The one possible downside to keeping fish is that their tank must be cleaned on a regular schedule to keep them healthy. If a senior is not able to do that themselves, there might be a family member or service that can perform that task for them.

Guinea Pigs

While certainly not for everyone, another pet option for seniors is a guinea pig. These animals are extremely easy to take care of, and can provide many hours of entertainment. Guinea pigs love to be handled, and only require a small amount of space for their cage and supplies.

Their living area does have to be cleaned on a regular basis, but the process is not physically exerting. Guinea pigs don’t need to be walked or cleaned up after in the yard, so they can be an ideal pet for those with mobility issues.

Birds

Birds are another great pet option for seniors. They are very entertaining, and their frenetic energy can have a positive impact on an older person’s living environment.

There is a seemingly endless variety of birds to choose from. Some require very little maintenance, while others require more hands on contact. All bird cages need to be cleaned on a regular basis, but it’s often not an overly taxing activity.

Birds such as canaries sing, while others like parrots can talk. Before choosing a bird for a pet, a senior should clearly understand the animal’s feeding and care requirements, lifespan, and other important factors to ensure compatibility in their home.