How Pets Can Support Healthy Aging – Conversations to Remember

Many pet owners can attest that pets have a special way of bringing joy into one’s life. However, there is a growing body of research showing that pets have more to offer than just companionship – they can have a meaningful impact on the physical, emotional, and social health of older adults. For seniors, who may face challenges including, but not limited to, reduced mobility, social isolation, or cognitive decline, owning or interacting with pets can promote healthy aging in ways that are both practical and therapeutic.

Pet ownership can encourage older adults to stay physically active, which is essential for maintaining mobility and reducing overall health risks. Walking a dog, for instance, provides regular exercise, which helps improve cardiovascular health and lower blood pressure. Additionally, the act of petting animals has been known to promote relaxation and reduce stress, as it releases endorphins (our natural mood elevators), reduces cortisol levels (the hormone responsible for stress), and lowers blood pressure. In the University of Michigan National Poll on Healthy Aging (2018), more than half of respondents, aged 50–80, reported owning a pet. Among these pet owners, 64% said their pets helped them stay physically active, with the percentage rising to 78% among dog owners. Such statistics suggest that owning a pet can positively contribute to the physical health of older adults.

Furthermore, owning a pet may improve cognitive function by stimulating mental engagement and memory. Caring for a pet requires various tasks, such as feeding, grooming, and training, which can provide cognitive stimulation. According to a 2023 study published in Preventive Medicine Reports, dog owners had a lower risk of dementia compared to non-dog owners. This is important, because dementia is a major area of concern within the medical community. According to Alzheimer’s Disease International, there were over 55 million people worldwide living with dementia in 2020. This number is projected to nearly double every 20 years, reaching 78 million in 2030 and 139 million in 2050. The rapid rise in dementia cases highlights the importance of understanding how pet ownership may influence its development, as this knowledge could lead to effective prevention strategies that could improve many people’s lives.

One of the most recognized benefits of pet ownership is the sense of companionship that pets provide. As people age, they may experience the loss of loved ones, children moving away, or diminished social networks. Pets can fill these emotional voids by offering unconditional love and support, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation. According to the aforementioned Michigan poll, 88% of pet owners said their pets made them enjoy life more, while 86% reported that their pets made them feel loved. This emotional bond is especially meaningful during difficult times. During the COVID-19 pandemic, when many people experienced heightened isolation, 10% of adults aged 50–80 got a new pet to help them cope with the social restrictions. Pets not only provided comfort but also helped seniors connect with others: 65% of pet owners said their pets facilitated social interactions. Walking a dog or visiting pet-friendly parks and events encourages interactions with other pet owners, fostering social connections and reducing feelings of isolation.

Additionally, caring for an animal offers older adults a sense of purpose and responsibility. Tasks such as feeding, grooming, and caring for a pet provide a structured schedule, which can motivate seniors to get up and get moving each morning. In the Michigan poll, 73% of respondents noted that their pets gave them a sense of purpose, and 60% said their pets helped them cope with physical or emotional challenges, including taking their mind off pain. For individuals managing chronic health conditions, having a pet can serve as an emotional anchor and provide motivation to remain engaged with life. Being responsible for a living being can provide a sense of fulfillment, which positively impacts one’s happiness and overall cognitive health.

Despite all the exciting benefits we have recognized so far, the impact of pet ownership on healthy aging still needs more research. Most research thus far has focused on dogs and cats, with less attention given to other pets, such as birds, fish, or small mammals. While these animals may not promote physical activity in the same way cats and dogs can, they still offer companionship and can bring joy into a person’s life. Further research is needed to explore how these non-traditional pets can support healthy aging. Such research will be beneficial for seniors who may not be able to care for a dog or cat, but who would still like to reap the benefits of owning a pet.

Finally, it is important to note that while pet ownership has many benefits, it is not suitable for everyone. Owning a pet requires time, energy, and financial resources, which may be constraints for some older adults. For example, the costs of veterinary care, food, grooming, and other pet care supplies can add up, making pet ownership expensive. Additionally, certain living arrangements, such as assisted living facilities, may have restrictions on pet ownership. For older adults who want to interact with animals without the responsibilities of ownership, there are alternatives. Volunteering at animal shelters, participating in pet therapy programs, or offering to pet-sit for friends and neighbors are all great ways to experience the benefits of pets. Many organizations also offer programs where therapy animals visit hospitals or nursing homes, providing companionship and comfort to residents.

From improving physical health to mental health, pets can enhance the quality of life for seniors in a multitude of meaningful ways. While pet ownership may not be practical for everyone, there are many ways for older adults to engage with animals and experience the joy and comfort they provide. As we continue to learn more about the relationship between pets and healthy aging, it is clear that these animal companions offer far more than just companionship – they offer a path toward improved health and happiness in one’s later years.

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