News

by guest author Brittany Garera-Stapleton, Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden

Just like people, animals experience changes as they age and each and every individual deserves the support they need to thrive. At the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, care doesn’t diminish as an animal grows older; it deepens. 

We know that all stages of life – animal or human – require and deserve patience as well as understanding. From softer flooring for arthritic joints to enrichment activities that keep minds sharp, senior Zoo animals continue to live vibrant, engaged lives.

 For example, our 46-year-old bonobo, Lana, receives medication to ease aches and pains common for aging great apes.  Her care team performs voluntary ultrasounds, monitors her diet, and provides modified climbing structures to keep her comfortable.  Lana still loves to train and interact with her care team, which reinforces that staying active, both mentally and physically, can make all the difference in aging well.

In addition, there’s Savanna, a 13-year-old cheetah whose arthritis recently led to her retirement from running in the cheetah encounter.  Her care team now ensures her days are filled with comfort and enrichment including strolls around Swan Lake and visits with the African penguins.  With ongoing care, her golden years will be spent surrounded by the sights and sounds she loves. 

In many ways, this mirrors the care and respect we owe our aging human population. The Zoo’s philosophy – meeting each animal where they are, honoring their history and supporting their continued wellbeing – reflects the same values at the heart of Council on Aging’s focus, to offer services that promote independence, dignity and health and safety.

About the author:

Brittany Garera-Stapleton is the Conservation Engagement & Volunteer Program Manager at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, which connects people with wildlife and wild places through education, action and care.  She oversees programs that empower adults to create positive conservation impact while finding purpose and community through volunteering at the Zoo.