Research indicates that pet ownership is associated with lower stress levels and increased fitness. Beyond offering companionship and unconditional love, pets can also help reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation, provide more social opportunities, and lower blood pressure.
In Canada, approximately 35% of people own a dog and 38% own a cat. Nearly half of all seniors have a pet. A study involving pet owners aged 50 to 80 revealed that 88% of respondents feel their pets enhance their enjoyment of life, 86% feel loved by their pets, and 79% believe their pets help reduce stress.
Here is a list of benefits of pets for seniors:
1. Companionship and mood boost. Pets offer valuable companionship and can lift spirits, helping to combat loneliness and isolation that can come from being distanced from family and friends.
2. Social opportunities. Owning a dog, in particular, provides opportunities to socialize. Walks in the park or dog parks can lead to new social interactions and connections with others.
3. Lower blood pressure. Pet owners often experience lower blood pressure, likely due to the calming influence of pets. Reduced blood pressure can decrease the risk of heart disease and stroke.
4. Stress reduction. Petting a dog has been shown to lower cortisol levels, a stress hormone. Research indicates that over 80% of post-traumatic stress disorder patients experience significant stress reduction from interactions with pets, with 40% reporting a decrease in the need for stress-related medication.
Love them without losing yourself. The Boom Health app helps you manage your loved one’s home care in one app. Download the app from the App Store or Google Play Store.
This article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
