Finding an assisted living that allows pets is not just about keeping a family intact; it’s about harnessing a powerful source of health and happiness supported by health and science. For many seniors, a beloved pet is a member of the family. The thought of moving to an assisted living pets allowed community and having to part with a cherished cat or dog can be a significant source of stress and can even delay a necessary move.

Fortunately, an increasing number of senior living options especially in Illinois and Michigan are recognizing the deep bond between humans and animals and more retirement communities in Illinois and Michigan are becoming proudly pet-friendly.

If you’re asking, does assisted living allow pets, the answer is often a resounding yes at quality communities that prioritize resident well-being. Choosing a senior community that is an assisted living pets allowed is fundamentally an emotional decision, yet the resulting improvements in resident wellness are powerfully affirmed by health and science, which is outlined below.

Scientific Benefits Of Pets In Senior Living

Finding a senior living community that supports the deep bond with your pet is about more than just comfort; it’s about measurable well-being. The presence of a beloved animal translates into significant health advantages for older adults across all levels of care. 

Scientific research has consistently proven that the human-animal connection can result to:

1. Physical Health Improvements

Pets provide a natural, daily motivation for physical activity, which is crucial for healthy aging.

• Boosted Cardiovascular Health: Studies show that interacting with animals can lower heart rate and blood pressure, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke. The simple act of petting an animal can trigger a calming response.
• Increased Activity: Especially for dog owners, a pet necessitates movement. Seniors with dogs walk an average of 22 minutes more per day than those without, helping them maintain mobility, flexibility, and a healthy weight.

2. Enhanced Emotional And Mental Well-being

The emotional support of a pet acts as a natural buffer against many challenges of aging.

• Reduced Stress and Anxiety: Pets have been proven to decrease levels of the stress hormone cortisol and increase the release of “happy hormones” like serotonin and dopamine. This neurochemical response promotes feelings of calm and well-being.
• Combating Loneliness and Isolation: Pets offer constant, non-judgmental companionship. This unconditional love is a powerful antidote to loneliness, which research has linked to an increased risk of depression, cardiovascular disease, and cognitive decline.
• A Sense of Purpose: Caring for an animal gives seniors a vital sense of responsibility and routine. Feeding, walking, and grooming a pet provides structure to the day, which is essential for self-esteem and overall mental health in retirement.

The presence of a cherished pet provides seniors with profound physical and mental health advantages, from lowering blood pressure to reducing feelings of loneliness. However, the exact way these benefits are integrated can change based on a resident’s needs.

So now, let’s discuss the importance of how animal companionship works across different environments of senior living, from the most active settings to specialized care.

Pets In Different Senior Living Settings

Whether a resident is enjoying the freedom of independent living, having a good assisted living program or receiving personalized care in a memory care setting, their pet remains a vital part of their routine. Understanding how this cherished relationship is supported in various senior living set-up is crucial for finding the right fit.

Pets In Independent Living

For residents enjoying the freedom of Independent Living, a pet solidifies the feeling of being in a true home. Pets encourage an active social life, acting as “social icebreakers” that make it easy to strike up a conversation with neighbors in the common areas or during walks. The daily routine of pet care helps residents stay mentally sharp and physically engaged with their community.

Pets In Assisted Living

In an Assisted Living setting, where residents may need some daily support, a pet is a steady, comforting presence during a major life transition. Knowing their beloved companion is allowed in an assisted living residence can alleviate stress and make the new apartment feel like home immediately. Many pet-friendly assisted living communities offer support services like dog walking or help with grooming to ensure the pets are well-cared for, even if the resident has minor limitations.

Pets In Memory Care

For residents in Memory Care, the benefits are profound. The emotional bond with an animal often remains intact even as cognitive function declines.

• Decreased Agitation: Animal-assisted therapy, or even just the presence of a familiar pet, can significantly reduce anxiety, agitation, and irritability associated with dementia.
  
• Increased Connection: Pets can elicit positive emotional responses and encourage communication. The sensory experience of petting a soft cat or dog can be incredibly soothing, helping to ground and calm a resident.

Oasis Senior Living Communities: A Pet-Friendly Philosophy

We understand that a senior’s pet is family. That’s why we are committed to providing a true home environment where residents and their furry friends can thrive together.

All Oasis Senior Living communities located in Illinois and Michigan embrace this pet-friendly philosophy. Whether you are moving to one of our existing communities or one opening soon, you can rest assured that your pet will be welcome.

Our pet-friendly senior living programs are available at:

• Plainfield, Illinois
  
• Norton Shores, Michigan
  
• Village of Clarkston, Michigan
  
• Clio, Michigan
  
• Streamwood, Illinois (Opening Soon)
  
• Frankfort, Illinois (Opening Soon)
  
• Holt, Michigan (Opening Soon)
  

While specific guidelines may apply regarding size, type, and the resident’s ability to care for their pet (for safety and community harmony), our goal is always to honor the human-animal bond. 

Know more about guidelines for having pets in senior living communities in this article.

Ready To Move? Your Furry Family Is Welcome

If you are searching for quality assisted living that allows pets, we invite you to explore Oasis Senior Living community, where every wag, purr, and chirrup is a sign of a happier, healthier resident. We understand that pets are cherished family members, and we proudly welcome them at all our locations in both Illinois and Michigan.

If you are searching for a true home that embraces the human-animal bond—where assisted living pets are a guarantee, not an exception—take the next step toward a happier, healthier future. 
Visit The Oasis Living today or contact 773-492-8872 to begin exploring your options by booking a tour with the closest Oasis Senior Living at your current location and to learn more about our pet-friendly programs.

Neil Beltran 23 October 2025