Studies show that seniors owning pets have lower blood pressure, take fewer antidepressants, and use fewer medical services. Pets have been shown to improve the health of older adults. They were also found to have better cardiovascular fitness [1].
The effectiveness of seniors owning pets is explained by Dr. Marwan Sabbagh, Director of Cleveland Clinic’s Center for Brain Health: “Simply petting an animal can decrease the level of the stress hormone cortisol and boost release of the neurotransmitter serotonin, resulting in lowered blood pressure and heart rate and, possibly, in elevated mood.” [2]
For seniors, pets bring calm and companionship. In a study on community-dwelling adults aged 65 or older, those with pets were found to benefit from “companionship, giving sense of purpose and meaning, reducing loneliness and increasing socialization [2].” Having daily walks with a dog gives older adults social interaction with their neighbors [3].
Many people feel a deep spiritual need to care for others, but get frustrated as they age and people no longer seem to need their help. But pets do need their help every day. Caring for pets helps nurture a sense of purpose, and spending time with pets helps us find peace in the present instead of worrying about the past or the future.
Simply put, pets help combat loneliness. They help people feel less isolated, and the close bonds they develop with their pets bring them happiness and joy. [4]
Seniors owning pets also benefit from increased physical exercise, which is key to a brain-healthy lifestyle [2]. The benefits extend to weight control, improved cardiorespiratory fitness and muscular strength and reduced risk of chronic diseases [2]. Dogs were specifically found to increase the mobility of elders [3].
What kind of pet should an older person welcome into their life? This depends on the personality and lifestyle of the pet owner, as well as their health needs, mobility and financial conditions. We gathered some information to serve as a guide [3]:
Dogs– For older adults, smaller adult dogs are ideal. They are much calmer than young dogs and usually have already been trained in basic obedience. They also enjoy going for walks and curling up with their owners, and usually don’t require care that is highly physically demanding.
Cats- Seniors who are always at home will enjoy the company of older cats. Cats love to stay indoors and curl up in a warm lap. Most adult cats typically play with their owners for 20 to 30 minutes daily, which can be engaging but non-exhausting for older adults. Dangling a fishing pole toy or changing the direction of a laser beam toy is usually all that’s required.
Birds- such as parakeets are wonderful companions for seniors and require minimal maintenance. They are a great option, particularly in places where there are restrictions for dogs or cats. Parakeets don’t scream or screech so they are not disruptive and they are the intelligent and affectionate kind who enjoy human interaction.
Rabbits- Bunnies make a great choice, too, since they are small and quiet. They can be trained, too, to use the litter box and can be maintained minimally through feedings and fresh water. Rabbits are sociable and love being petted and brushed hence giving a great way for elders to relax and bond with a fluffy friend.
Fish- Observing fish in an aquarium has been shown to lower blood pressure and heart rate, which can impact the risk of stroke, heart disease and other conditions. They’re also low-maintenance compared to most other pets and offer great companionship. A fun fact: fish can recognize and get excited when they see their owners! [6]
References
1. Edward T. Creagan, Brent A. Bauer, Barbara S. Thomley, Jessica M. Borg, 2015. “Animal-assisted therapy at Mayo Clinic: The time is now”, Volume 21, Issue 2, Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice. Accessed October 3, 2022. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1744388115000249
2. “Why Having a Pet Can Boost Your Mood and Keep Your Brain Healthy, Understanding how animals contribute to good health”, Cleveland Clinic Health Essentials. Accessed October 3, 2022. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/why-having-a-pet-of-any-kind-may-boost-your-mood-and-keep-your-brain-healthy/
3. Vera Lawlor, “Grandma needs a loyal companion: The 4 best pets for the elderly”. April 15, 2022, Pawtracks blog. Accessed October 3, 2022. https://www.pawtracks.com/getting-started/pets-for-the-elderly/
4. Cynthia Weiss, “How owning pets can lead to a healthier lifestyle”. March 7, 2021, Mayo Clinic Q and A. Accessed October 3, 2022. https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mayo-clinic-q-and-a-how-owning-pets-can-lead-to-a-healthier-lifestyle/#:~:text=ANSWER%3A%20Pets%20play%20a%20huge,overall%20happiness%20and%20well%2Dbeing.
5. Vivien Williams, “Why having a dog is heart-healthy”. August 23, 2019, Mayo Clinic Minute. Accessed October 3, 2022. https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mayo-clinic-minute-why-having-a-dog-is-heart-healthy/?mc_id=us&utm_source=newsnetwork&utm_medium=l&utm_content=content&utm_campaign=mayoclinic&geo=national&placementsite=enterprise&cauid=100721
6. Matt Leighton, “Why fish make great pets for seniors.” September 2, 2020, Seniors Lifestyle mag.com. Accessed October 6, 2022. https://seniorslifestylemag.com/health-well-being/why-fish-make-great-pets-for-seniors/