Aged care has come a long way from its early days when the focus was solely on medical care. Back then, aged care facilities were modelled after hospitals, designed to eliminate risks and create sterile environments. While this approach was well-intentioned, it overlooked an essential aspect of human life: the need for connection, companionship, and community. Today, we understand that aged care is about more than just healthcare – it’s about providing a fulfilling, vibrant life for our residents. Pets in aged care is one way of achieving this.
As people age, their social circles often shrink. Children move out, friends may relocate, and physical limitations can make it harder to get out and about. Despite these changes, the innate human need for social interaction remains. This is where pets come into the picture, offering companionship, purpose, and joy to their owners.
At Glenvale Villas, we’ve always recognised the profound impact pets can have on the lives of our residents. We allow residents to bring their beloved pets with them when they move in, ensuring they can continue to enjoy the comfort and companionship that only a pet can provide. Whether it’s a loyal dog, a cuddly cat, or even a small bird, pets are an integral part of life at Glenvale Villas.
The benefits of having pets in aged care are well-documented. Pets provide emotional support, reduce feelings of loneliness, and even encourage physical activity. For example, our residents regularly take their dogs for a walk around the community. This daily routine not only keeps them physically active, but also creates opportunities for social interaction with neighbours and staff. It’s these simple moments that contribute to a richer, more connected life.
Pets also have a calming effect, which can be particularly beneficial in aged care settings. The presence of a pet can reduce stress and anxiety, leading to a more peaceful and relaxed atmosphere. Many of our residents find great comfort in the companionship of their pets, and we’re proud to support these meaningful relationships.
At Glenvale Villas, we believe that aged care should be about more than just meeting medical needs – it should be about creating a warm, welcoming environment where residents can thrive. By allowing pets, we help foster a sense of community, purpose, and joy among our residents. It’s a key part of our philosophy and one of the many ways we strive to make life at Glenvale Villas as fulfilling as possible.
In a world where aged care is evolving, we’re proud to be leading the way with a pet-friendly approach that truly enriches the lives of our residents. Whether it’s the wag of a dog’s tail, the purr of a cat, or the chirp of a bird, the presence of pets at Glenvale Villas is a testament to our commitment to providing a caring, connected community for all who live here.
