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The Elderly and Pets: Prescription for Health

An increasing wealth of research shows that many older citizens experience considerable health benefits from owning pets or simply being around them. Older people seem to have a special bond with their pets especially if they live alone or their loved ones live far away. Several studies demonstrate that the elderly are happier and more active in their daily lives. Perhaps this is due to a sense of purpose and responsibility that goes along with pet ownership. Regardless seniors remark that they enjoy how their pets comfort them with touch as they are fuzzy and cuddly. Coupled with an added sense of companionship, safety and security, pets play an important role in the lives of our elderly.

Some researchers have found that contact with animals can offer real physiological benefits including reducing stress and in turn lowering blood pressure, help in recovering from an illnesses, and improving chances of survival after a life-threatening illness. A more basic widely recognized benefit is that of motivating seniors to exercise more through dog walking or playing with a cat. Needless to say, this fascinating connection of pet ownership to physical well-being among our elderly will be explored in greater depth for years to come.

It has been known for years that animals are a great source of positive therapy for many residents in care facilities. Pet visits encourage interaction by allowing patients to pet and play with them. They form bonds as they get familiar with the animals resulting in possible connections among each other as well. Enhancing social interaction and sensory stimulation is yet another benefit that pets provide our elderly.

The United States Humane Society points out a number of benefits to pet ownership: pets provide companionship and give people "someone to care for." The Humane Society also notes that because they provide a focus of conversation and activity, pets help people to be more sociable. It may then come as no surprise that researchers continue to show that pets are good for your health. Furthermore many older pet owners declare that their pets are simply a constant source of enjoyment, friendship and fun.