The Animalist Party Against Animal Abuse (PACMA) reopened the debate on the presence of animals in nursing homes, requesting that elderly people be able to live with their pets. The party argues that the forced separation of the elderly and their animal companions is an unnecessary and cruel measure that should be reconsidered.
PACMA argues that, for many elderly people, their pets represent their only companionship and fundamental emotional support. The loss of this bond can have a negative impact on their well-being, affecting both their mood and health.
Different studies have shown that living with animals contributes to improving physical and mental health, reducing stress, anxiety, and feelings of loneliness. Therefore, the animalist party insists on the need for clear regulations that guarantee this right in all the country’s nursing homes.
A petition based on successful experiences
Although some nursing homes already allow cohabitation with pets, many others still impose restrictions, forcing the elderly to separate from their animals when entering these facilities. PACMA believes that this situation is avoidable and that measures should be implemented to facilitate the presence of pets in nursing homes.
To achieve this, the party proposes the creation of specific resources to help the elderly in caring for their animals, avoiding lack of assistance as a reason for separation. They also suggest establishing support programs to ensure the well-being of both residents and their pets.
A call to the administration
PACMA urges administrations to regulate this issue and set uniform guidelines to avoid inequalities among different facilities. “If some nursing homes have shown that it is possible, there is no reason for others to continue with restrictions that only cause suffering,” stated the party.
The proposal reopened the debate on the rights of the elderly and the role animals play in their well-being. Meanwhile, PACMA continues to insist on the need for regulatory change to allow the elderly to enjoy the companionship of their pets in their later years of life.
How do pets help the elderly?
Pets can help people exercise, meet new people, and reduce stress. In fact, it is scientifically proven that having a pet helps improve physical health, as it lowers blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and triglyceride levels.
In fact, pets also help reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation, as interacting with animals can lower stress levels, reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, and even lower blood pressure.
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