Everyone gets lonely, which is why animals make great companions. This is especially true for older adults with grown-up children living elsewhere or those living in a retirement or assisted-living facility. Whether it’s for yourself or someone else, here are some of the best pets to get for lonely older adults.

Cats

Cats are a great animal choice for any lonely senior or older adult. They’re cute, cuddly, and relatively low maintenance. You don’t need to take them for walks or pick up their poop. All you need to buy are a litter box and cat litter, and they’ll figure out the rest on their own. You can also buy wet or dry cat food depending on your kitty’s preferences. Short-haired cats won’t shed as much as long-haired cats, so keep that in mind when adopting a feline friend. Cats are one type of pet with many benefits for seniors. Since they’re always around, they help curb loneliness and isolation for those living alone.

Dogs

Dogs are another great pet choice since there are many breeds available in different shapes and sizes for your lifestyle. Some people prefer small toy dogs, while others want something large and defensive. Either way, dogs are a great pet choice because they provide unconditional love and support for their owners. Dogs require more maintenance than cats, though. You need to take them outside, walk them, play with them, pick up their waste, feed them, and take them to the vet when they’re sick. Those who can’t handle a dog may prefer a cat or another small pet.

Fish

While they’re not as cute or cuddly as a cat or dog, a fish is still one of the best pets to get for a lonely older adult. You don’t need an industrial-sized aquarium either. Betta fish only need a small, solitary space to thrive. These fish are also colorful and pretty to look at. Taking care of fish is simple; all you need to do is feed it and clean out the bowl. A high-quality fish tank with lights and filters can make caring for a fish easier than ever before.