Animal welfare agencies, such as shelters, are dedicated and essential to protecting vulnerable populations. Senior citizens may often be a vulnerable population, facing the severe impacts of isolation. Companion animals play an integral role in combatting the risks of social isolation. The presence of pets has been attributed with feeling a sense of purpose and improved quality of life and duration. Therefore, animal welfare agencies have a unique opportunity to protect and combat the risks of social isolation amongst the senior population by developing and implementing key programming for seniors, with seniors.
This session will:
- Discuss the role companion animals play in combatting social isolation, and creating a sense of meaning for seniors, especially those in isolation.
- Review the accomplishments and goals CHS has for seniors focused programming:
- Silvera for Seniors Foster Program- Assisted Living Facility, ‘Silvera for Seniors’, designing and opening a foster room exclusive to CHS cats. Increased foster placements and adoption outcomes.
- Review ongoing endeavours to increase programming for seniors and domestic animals:
- Keeping animals in home with their senior owners
- Apply to Alberta Veterinary Medical Association (ABVMA) to expand licensing to provide medical care for animals owned by senior citizens with financial limitations
- Provide resources to ensure animals needs are met such as special diets, behaviour support and euthanasia support
- Engage seniors with companion animals through community engagement opportunities
- Keeping animals in home with their senior owners
- Review importance of inter-agency collaboration and support
- Case study: intake diversion achieved through collaboration between Calgary Humane Society and Calgary Seniors Resource Society
Educational Topic
Outreach and Engagement