October 10, 2025 • 14 mins
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The bond between humans and their animal companions takes on special significance as we age. A wet nose nudging your hand or a warm body curled at your feet isn't just comforting—it's life-enhancing. Scientific research confirms what pet owners already know: sharing your home with an animal companion lowers blood pressure, combats loneliness, encourages physical activity, and significantly reduces depression and anxiety symptoms.
But what happens when both you and your furry friend begin facing age-related challenges? Creating a safe, accommodating environment becomes a shared journey. From mobility hazards like scattered toys and slippery floors to the increasing difficulty of once-routine tasks like bathing a large dog or changing a litter box, aging in place with pets presents unique considerations.
We explore practical solutions that benefit everyone under your roof. Just as we adapt our environment for our changing needs, our senior pets benefit from thoughtful adjustments too.
Subscribe to our channel for more aging in place insights and visit the Aging in Place Directory for comprehensive resources to help you and your beloved pet continue thriving together at home.
Thanks for listening!
Sign up to our Homeowners Newsletter - it's a weekly newsletter filled with expert tips and advice on how to age safely and more comfortably in your own home.
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:34):
Hello and welcome to another episode of the Aging in
Place Directory podcast, theshow that brings you the latest
insight, tips and stories aboutliving comfortably and happily
at home, no matter your age.
I'm your host, robin Schiltz,and today I have a topic that's
as heartwarming as it isimportant aging in place with
(00:54):
pets and creating a safeenvironment for both.
Important aging in place withpets and creating a safe
environment for both.
So, whether you share your homewith a spry little terrier, a
napping tabby cat, a talkativeparrot or even something a bit
more exotic, today's episode isall about making life safer and
more joyful for both you andyour furry, leathery or scaly
companions.
(01:14):
Grab a cup of tea, give yourpet a scratch behind the ears
and let's dive in.
Let's start at the heart of thematter.
Why are pets so important as weage?
For many, a pet is more thanjust company they're part of the
family.
Science backs this up.
Studies show that having petscan lower blood pressure, reduce
(01:35):
loneliness, boost activitylevels and even decrease
depression and anxiety.
For older adults living alone,a pet can be an anchor of
routine, a source ofunconditional love and sometimes
the reason to smile duringtough days.
And, of course, there's justsomething about a wet nose in
your hand, a warm body at yourfeet or a bird's cheerful chirp
(01:59):
to start your morning.
But as our needs evolve withage and our pets' needs change
throughout their lives, creatinga safe, accommodating
environment becomes a sharedproject, which brings us to our
first big question what doesaging in place mean for people
and pets?
(02:19):
Well, aging in place is aboutstaying in your own home, safely
and independently for as longas possible.
For pet owners, this means morethan grab bars and non-slip
rugs.
It means thinking about youranimal friends, their daily
routines, their health and theirsafety as well.
The home isn't just your domain, it's theirs as well.
(02:41):
Obstacles that you both faceare stairs, slippery floors,
tight spaces.
Even these can be challengingfor pets as they age.
Adapting your space is aboutsupporting independence for
every living creature under yourroof, and preparing for
successful aging in placeinvolves planning for both
(03:01):
yourself and your pets, soeveryone continues to thrive
safely and comfortably together.
So now, how about the risks andchallenges?
I mean what could go wrong?
Well, before we talk aboutsolutions, let's get honest
about the challenges.
I mean what could go wrong?
Well, before we talk aboutsolutions, let's get honest
about the challenges.
Here are some of the mostcommon risks that come with
(03:22):
aging in place with pets.
The first is mobility hazardsTripping over pets or belongings
a cat on the stairs or a dogtoy on the floor can cause a
nasty fall, more so for thosewith impaired balance or vision.
And then slippery floors withhard surfaces can send both you
(03:43):
and your pet sliding, especiallyas joints get creaky.
There's accessibility.
Pet needs outgrow humanabilities.
Scoop a 60-pound dog into a tub, chase a cat under the bed
tasks that were once routine canbecome difficult as we age.
Then there's medical needs,both human and pet health.
(04:05):
Sudden illness, surgery orchronic issues can make caring
for a pet harder or leave ananimal unchecked for injuries
and illness.
Then there's routinedisruptions.
Changes in routine, whether dueto health episodes, visits from
caregivers or home renovations,can stress pets and lead to
(04:27):
problems like house soiling orhiding.
Things like emergencypreparedness is another thing to
consider.
What if you can't get home?
Who takes care of your pet ifyou're hospitalized or you're
stuck away somewhere due to theweather?
Remember, these risks are notbeing talked about to scare you,
but to prepare you.
(04:49):
So now let's open the toolboxand talk practical solutions.
First, you want to declutterand organize.
Keep pet toys and bowls off oftraffic paths.
Use baskets or bins and avoidleaving things around where they
can be tripped over.
Secure rugs and cords.
Taping down the edges stopsboth paws and feet from slipping
(05:13):
.
You want to have non-slip matsavailable for everyone, so place
mats in high traffic areas,near food and water and where
pets like to nap.
And then there are stair gatesFor pets or owners who struggle
with stairs.
Gates can limit access todangerous areas.
(05:34):
Then how about self-feeding andwatering?
Use elevated bowls for large orstiff pets, because it's easier
for those who have arthritis,and use automatic water
fountains.
It keeps pets hydrated andmeans less bending over.
For you, here are some litterbox and potty solutions.
(05:57):
Some litter box and pottysolutions Get low-sided litter
boxes Cats with arthritis willthank you.
And then use indoor grass padsor puppy pads for dogs when
walks are tough due to weatheror your health.
Also, consider pet ramps anddoors For pet ramps, over stairs
(06:18):
, into beds, onto couches.
Ramps make moving easier forpets with mobility issues and
mean less lifting for owners.
And then secure pet doors.
You want to be sure that thedoors are lockable and
weatherproof, avoiding securityrisks.
As far as grooming and hygiene,how about non-slip bath mats for
(06:40):
bath time, which preventsslipping for both of you?
Or use mobile groomers orin-home services, because it's
less stress and less lifting foryou.
Also, consider vet care at home.
Many areas now have vets whomake home visits, minimizing the
need to travel and makingroutine care much easier.
(07:02):
As always, lighting matters, sonight lights along hallways are
beneficial for both pets andhumans when navigating in the
dark, especially for olderanimals or people with declining
vision.
There's also smart home techavailable now.
Pet cameras keep an eye onfurry friends when you're away,
(07:26):
and automated feeders areperfect for when you're out for
appointments.
Have emergency plans.
Identify someone in your lifewho is a pet care buddy, a
trusted neighbor, a friend or arelative who can step in if
you're not able to be there.
Get emergency supplies andstock up Extra food, medications
(07:48):
and a list of instructions.
Put them easily found in anobvious place, and get pet
rescue alert stickers whichinform first responders that you
have pets needing rescue incase of a fire or an emergency
evacuation.
When it comes time to makingyour home safer for both you and
(08:08):
your pet, small changes add upand it's worth the peace of mind
.
So now let's talk about adaptingas needs change, both yours and
your pets, as we age.
We're not the only ones whoslow down.
Our pets do as well.
Keep an eye out for changes inmobility, appetite and behavior
(08:28):
in both yourself and your animalcompanion.
Here are signs your pet mayneed accommodations If they
hesitate going up and downstairs, if they have difficulty
jumping onto favorite spots, ifyou're seeing increased
accidents inside the house, ifthey're reluctant to play or
(08:49):
move around, or if they showfear or anxiety when routines
shift.
Just as we adapt ourenvironment and routines for
ourselves, our pets, especiallyour senior pets, benefit from
similar adjustments.
So work with your veterinaryteam, schedule regular checkups,
ask about supplements ormedications for joint support,
(09:12):
and discuss changes in dietsuited to aging animals, to
aging animals.
And as far as adapting your ownroutine, consider flexible
walking schedules with shorter,more frequent outings, and allow
for play and grooming at timeswhen you feel best each day.
Communication is the key withyour doctor, with your vet and
(09:33):
with loved ones, so everyone ison the same page.
That said, there may come a timewhen you need extra support.
That could mean gettingprofessional pet care, like pet
sitters or dog walkers.
It could mean assisted livingfor pet owners.
Some communities allowcompanion animals, so always ask
, and then family and friends.
(09:55):
Don't be afraid to ask them forhelp.
Caring for a beloved pet can bea group effort For some.
Tough decisions can arise onrehoming a pet if health no
longer permits adequate care.
Planning ahead can ease thisprocess, ensuring your animal
companion is placed with someonewho will love and care for them
(10:15):
should that become necessary.
And a side note here consideryour age if you're adopting a
pet.
It's much better for you ifyou're in your 80s to adopt a
pet who is also a senior thanmaybe a puppy or a kitten.
First of all, they're higherenergy, a puppy or a kitten, so
(10:37):
it's harder for you to have themaround because they're so
energetic.
But if you were to get sick andhave to go into assisted living
and you couldn't bring your pet, that means that you're either
having to rehome a young pet oryou're having your family have
to take care of the pet, andthat isn't always feasible.
(10:58):
So it's often better to have amore sedate but still loving and
fun companion who's a senior,just like you, rather than a
very energetic kitten or puppy.
All right, let's talk about astory that really brings all of
this to life.
(11:19):
Last month I spoke with Mary,who's 78 and lives with her
loyal Labrador, shadow.
After a fall left her in rehabfor three weeks.
It was her neighbor, her petcare buddy, who stepped in,
caring for Shadow and keepingMary updated with daily texts
and photos.
When Mary returned home, shadowgreeted her with such happiness
(11:40):
that Mary swears her healingsped up.
She told me that having Shadowhere makes getting older a lot
less scary.
He's my reason to get up andkeep going.
And then there's George, aretiree with a mischievous cat
named Clover.
After installing a series ofpet ramps from the living room
to Clover's favorite windowporch, george found his own
(12:02):
joints benefited from lessbending and stretching.
Turns out we're both gettingold, he said.
Clover keeps me company and Imake life comfortable for her.
Stories like these are areminder that aging in place
isn't just about where you live,but how you live and who you
share your life with.
So here are some quick tips forsafe homes with pets Keep pet
(12:27):
IDs and photos current for bothevery day and emergencies.
Choose pet food and medicationstorage that's easy to open but
secure.
Maintain regular grooming forpets, because shedding fur can
be a slipping hazard.
Keep emergency contacts likethe vet, pet sitter and family
numbers, where you and otherscan find them easily.
(12:49):
Here are some resources worthexploring Check your local Meals
on Wheels to see if they have apet food program.
Consider using therapy animalorganizations for social visits
if you don't think you are ableto have a pet.
(13:11):
There are senior centers thatoffer pet friendly outings and
activities, and there's onlinedirectories of mobile vets and
pet care services that can helpcome to your home instead of
making you go to them.
So, as you can see, aging inplace can be an adventure.
It's sometimes challenging,often a little messy, and
usually accompanied by thepitter-patter of paws or the
(13:32):
flutter of feathers.
With the right planning,thoughtful adjustments and a
little help from our community,we can ensure that our homes
remain safe, happy and nurturingplaces for every member of our
family, whether they'retwo-legged or four.
If you enjoyed today's episode,please subscribe to our channel
for more helpful tips aboutaging in place, and don't forget
(13:55):
to check out the Aging in Placedirectory for more resources,
guides and support to help youand your pet live your best life
at home.
So thanks for tuning in anduntil next time, give your pet
an extra treat and rememberevery day shared together is a
gift.
Till the next time, take care.
Bye.
Hello and welcome to another episode of the Aging in
Place Directory podcast, theshow that brings you the latest
insight, tips and stories aboutliving comfortably and happily
at home, no matter your age.
I'm your host, robin Schiltz,and today I have a topic that's
as heartwarming as it isimportant aging in place with
(00:54):
pets and creating a safeenvironment for both.
Important aging in place withpets and creating a safe
environment for both.
So, whether you share your homewith a spry little terrier, a
napping tabby cat, a talkativeparrot or even something a bit
more exotic, today's episode isall about making life safer and
more joyful for both you andyour furry, leathery or scaly
companions.
(01:14):
Grab a cup of tea, give yourpet a scratch behind the ears
and let's dive in.
Let's start at the heart of thematter.
Why are pets so important as weage?
For many, a pet is more thanjust company they're part of the
family.
Science backs this up.
Studies show that having petscan lower blood pressure, reduce
(01:35):
loneliness, boost activitylevels and even decrease
depression and anxiety.
For older adults living alone,a pet can be an anchor of
routine, a source ofunconditional love and sometimes
the reason to smile duringtough days.
And, of course, there's justsomething about a wet nose in
your hand, a warm body at yourfeet or a bird's cheerful chirp
(01:59):
to start your morning.
But as our needs evolve withage and our pets' needs change
throughout their lives, creatinga safe, accommodating
environment becomes a sharedproject, which brings us to our
first big question what doesaging in place mean for people
and pets?
(02:19):
Well, aging in place is aboutstaying in your own home, safely
and independently for as longas possible.
For pet owners, this means morethan grab bars and non-slip
rugs.
It means thinking about youranimal friends, their daily
routines, their health and theirsafety as well.
The home isn't just your domain, it's theirs as well.
(02:41):
Obstacles that you both faceare stairs, slippery floors,
tight spaces.
Even these can be challengingfor pets as they age.
Adapting your space is aboutsupporting independence for
every living creature under yourroof, and preparing for
successful aging in placeinvolves planning for both
(03:01):
yourself and your pets, soeveryone continues to thrive
safely and comfortably together.
So now, how about the risks andchallenges?
I mean what could go wrong?
Well, before we talk aboutsolutions, let's get honest
about the challenges.
I mean what could go wrong?
Well, before we talk aboutsolutions, let's get honest
about the challenges.
Here are some of the mostcommon risks that come with
(03:22):
aging in place with pets.
The first is mobility hazardsTripping over pets or belongings
a cat on the stairs or a dogtoy on the floor can cause a
nasty fall, more so for thosewith impaired balance or vision.
And then slippery floors withhard surfaces can send both you
(03:43):
and your pet sliding, especiallyas joints get creaky.
There's accessibility.
Pet needs outgrow humanabilities.
Scoop a 60-pound dog into a tub, chase a cat under the bed
tasks that were once routine canbecome difficult as we age.
Then there's medical needs,both human and pet health.
(04:05):
Sudden illness, surgery orchronic issues can make caring
for a pet harder or leave ananimal unchecked for injuries
and illness.
Then there's routinedisruptions.
Changes in routine, whether dueto health episodes, visits from
caregivers or home renovations,can stress pets and lead to
(04:27):
problems like house soiling orhiding.
Things like emergencypreparedness is another thing to
consider.
What if you can't get home?
Who takes care of your pet ifyou're hospitalized or you're
stuck away somewhere due to theweather?
Remember, these risks are notbeing talked about to scare you,
but to prepare you.
(04:49):
So now let's open the toolboxand talk practical solutions.
First, you want to declutterand organize.
Keep pet toys and bowls off oftraffic paths.
Use baskets or bins and avoidleaving things around where they
can be tripped over.
Secure rugs and cords.
Taping down the edges stopsboth paws and feet from slipping
(05:13):
.
You want to have non-slip matsavailable for everyone, so place
mats in high traffic areas,near food and water and where
pets like to nap.
And then there are stair gatesFor pets or owners who struggle
with stairs.
Gates can limit access todangerous areas.
(05:34):
Then how about self-feeding andwatering?
Use elevated bowls for large orstiff pets, because it's easier
for those who have arthritis,and use automatic water
fountains.
It keeps pets hydrated andmeans less bending over.
For you, here are some litterbox and potty solutions.
(05:57):
Some litter box and pottysolutions Get low-sided litter
boxes Cats with arthritis willthank you.
And then use indoor grass padsor puppy pads for dogs when
walks are tough due to weatheror your health.
Also, consider pet ramps anddoors For pet ramps, over stairs
(06:18):
, into beds, onto couches.
Ramps make moving easier forpets with mobility issues and
mean less lifting for owners.
And then secure pet doors.
You want to be sure that thedoors are lockable and
weatherproof, avoiding securityrisks.
As far as grooming and hygiene,how about non-slip bath mats for
(06:40):
bath time, which preventsslipping for both of you?
Or use mobile groomers orin-home services, because it's
less stress and less lifting foryou.
Also, consider vet care at home.
Many areas now have vets whomake home visits, minimizing the
need to travel and makingroutine care much easier.
(07:02):
As always, lighting matters, sonight lights along hallways are
beneficial for both pets andhumans when navigating in the
dark, especially for olderanimals or people with declining
vision.
There's also smart home techavailable now.
Pet cameras keep an eye onfurry friends when you're away,
(07:26):
and automated feeders areperfect for when you're out for
appointments.
Have emergency plans.
Identify someone in your lifewho is a pet care buddy, a
trusted neighbor, a friend or arelative who can step in if
you're not able to be there.
Get emergency supplies andstock up Extra food, medications
(07:48):
and a list of instructions.
Put them easily found in anobvious place, and get pet
rescue alert stickers whichinform first responders that you
have pets needing rescue incase of a fire or an emergency
evacuation.
When it comes time to makingyour home safer for both you and
(08:08):
your pet, small changes add upand it's worth the peace of mind
.
So now let's talk about adaptingas needs change, both yours and
your pets, as we age.
We're not the only ones whoslow down.
Our pets do as well.
Keep an eye out for changes inmobility, appetite and behavior
(08:28):
in both yourself and your animalcompanion.
Here are signs your pet mayneed accommodations If they
hesitate going up and downstairs, if they have difficulty
jumping onto favorite spots, ifyou're seeing increased
accidents inside the house, ifthey're reluctant to play or
(08:49):
move around, or if they showfear or anxiety when routines
shift.
Just as we adapt ourenvironment and routines for
ourselves, our pets, especiallyour senior pets, benefit from
similar adjustments.
So work with your veterinaryteam, schedule regular checkups,
ask about supplements ormedications for joint support,
(09:12):
and discuss changes in dietsuited to aging animals, to
aging animals.
And as far as adapting your ownroutine, consider flexible
walking schedules with shorter,more frequent outings, and allow
for play and grooming at timeswhen you feel best each day.
Communication is the key withyour doctor, with your vet and
(09:33):
with loved ones, so everyone ison the same page.
That said, there may come a timewhen you need extra support.
That could mean gettingprofessional pet care, like pet
sitters or dog walkers.
It could mean assisted livingfor pet owners.
Some communities allowcompanion animals, so always ask
, and then family and friends.
(09:55):
Don't be afraid to ask them forhelp.
Caring for a beloved pet can bea group effort For some.
Tough decisions can arise onrehoming a pet if health no
longer permits adequate care.
Planning ahead can ease thisprocess, ensuring your animal
companion is placed with someonewho will love and care for them
(10:15):
should that become necessary.
And a side note here consideryour age if you're adopting a
pet.
It's much better for you ifyou're in your 80s to adopt a
pet who is also a senior thanmaybe a puppy or a kitten.
First of all, they're higherenergy, a puppy or a kitten, so
(10:37):
it's harder for you to have themaround because they're so
energetic.
But if you were to get sick andhave to go into assisted living
and you couldn't bring your pet, that means that you're either
having to rehome a young pet oryou're having your family have
to take care of the pet, andthat isn't always feasible.
(10:58):
So it's often better to have amore sedate but still loving and
fun companion who's a senior,just like you, rather than a
very energetic kitten or puppy.
All right, let's talk about astory that really brings all of
this to life.
(11:19):
Last month I spoke with Mary,who's 78 and lives with her
loyal Labrador, shadow.
After a fall left her in rehabfor three weeks.
It was her neighbor, her petcare buddy, who stepped in,
caring for Shadow and keepingMary updated with daily texts
and photos.
When Mary returned home, shadowgreeted her with such happiness
(11:40):
that Mary swears her healingsped up.
She told me that having Shadowhere makes getting older a lot
less scary.
He's my reason to get up andkeep going.
And then there's George, aretiree with a mischievous cat
named Clover.
After installing a series ofpet ramps from the living room
to Clover's favorite windowporch, george found his own
(12:02):
joints benefited from lessbending and stretching.
Turns out we're both gettingold, he said.
Clover keeps me company and Imake life comfortable for her.
Stories like these are areminder that aging in place
isn't just about where you live,but how you live and who you
share your life with.
So here are some quick tips forsafe homes with pets Keep pet
(12:27):
IDs and photos current for bothevery day and emergencies.
Choose pet food and medicationstorage that's easy to open but
secure.
Maintain regular grooming forpets, because shedding fur can
be a slipping hazard.
Keep emergency contacts likethe vet, pet sitter and family
numbers, where you and otherscan find them easily.
(12:49):
Here are some resources worthexploring Check your local Meals
on Wheels to see if they have apet food program.
Consider using therapy animalorganizations for social visits
if you don't think you are ableto have a pet.
(13:11):
There are senior centers thatoffer pet friendly outings and
activities, and there's onlinedirectories of mobile vets and
pet care services that can helpcome to your home instead of
making you go to them.
So, as you can see, aging inplace can be an adventure.
It's sometimes challenging,often a little messy, and
usually accompanied by thepitter-patter of paws or the
(13:32):
flutter of feathers.
With the right planning,thoughtful adjustments and a
little help from our community,we can ensure that our homes
remain safe, happy and nurturingplaces for every member of our
family, whether they'retwo-legged or four.
If you enjoyed today's episode,please subscribe to our channel
for more helpful tips aboutaging in place, and don't forget
(13:55):
to check out the Aging in Placedirectory for more resources,
guides and support to help youand your pet live your best life
at home.
So thanks for tuning in anduntil next time, give your pet
an extra treat and rememberevery day shared together is a
gift.
Till the next time, take care.
Bye.
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