The Benefits of Pet Ownership for Seniors
Author: Home Helpers Home Care
At Home Helpers of MetroWest, MA, Home Care Includes Social and Emotional Support: Pet Ownership Can Help
I have an adorable canine companion named Buddy. He regularly accompanies me to the office and always offers unconditional love and unlimited tail-wags to everyone he meets. He’s frisky, funny, and loves to cuddle, which adds so much life to my family’s home and my Home Helpers Home Care family!
I mention my sweet sidekick Buddy because August is National Dog Month. I can honestly say that pet ownership has enhanced my personal and professional life in many ways. There are many benefits of pet ownership for seniors, too.
American-Humane says, “Research has shown that pet ownership can provide important forms of social and emotional support for older adults that can reduce distress, loneliness and improve overall quality of life. One study found that strong attachment to a pet was associated with less depression among older adults.”
Pet ownership among seniors has also been linked to other health benefits such as:
- Decreased blood pressure, cholesterol levels, triglyceride levels, feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and PTSD
- Increased opportunities for exercise and outdoor activities, better cognitive function in older adults, and more opportunities to socialize
- Studies show that seniors who own pets reduce their risk for heart disease and decrease their number of doctor visits
For seniors who struggle with ambulation or other health conditions that may prohibit them from walking a dog, a cat may be the purrfect option. Senior dogs or cats are also appropriate for aging adults because they tend to be calmer and quieter and require less maintenance.
The bond between a pet and its human positively contributes to healthy aging in several areas including:
- Mental health
- Anxiety, stress, depression, Alzheimer’s and dementia
- Physical health
- Physical activity, obesity, cardiovascular health
- Cancer
- Quality of life, pain management, early detection
According to Pets for the Elderly, “While any pet owner can certainly attest to the many benefits of living with a furry friend, research confirming the health benefits of senior pet ownership has appeared in many respected publications and medical journals.”
There are dozens of these studies and articles listed on the Pets for the Elderly website if you want to explore more.
One article published by U.S. News & World Report reiterates the top 10 reasons older people need pets:
- Having companionship
- Maintaining a routine
- Increasing exercise
- Managing stress
- Getting out for more activity
- Socializing and making friends
- Exploring new interests, like visiting hospitals or assisted living facilities to share your pet’s love
- Providing protection and security
- Caring for them is an important responsibility
- Investing in life
The home care team at Home Helpers MetroWest provides home care services every day that include pet care, companionship, outings, socialization, and so much more to support senior independence, health, and wellness for a better quality of life.
I gladly offer a no-obligation, FREE Consultation so I can assess specific ways our compassionate caregivers can provide senior care to make life easier for you or an aging loved one.
Home Helpers® Home Care of MetroWest proudly serves male and female seniors in Concord, Framingham, Lincoln, Marlborough, Natick, Southborough, Sudbury, Wayland, Wellesley, Weston, and surrounding areas. We are Making Life Easier℠ in our Massachusetts communities every day! 508-545-0164
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