Uncover the advantages of owning this hidden gem!
The recent increase in pet ownership during the pandemic has been truly remarkable. Adding a furry companion to your life can bring immense joy, especially for older individuals. The perks of welcoming a pet into your home are plentiful, with research indicating that pet ownership not only benefits your physical health but also enhances cognitive function, uplifts your mood, and much more. Explore the ways in which having a dog, cat, or other animal companion can positively impact both your body and mind.
Pets and Your Well-Being:
Witnessing a playful furball darting around your living space is bound to bring a smile to your face. The comforting sound of paws padding on the floor can also provide reassurance and warmth, especially for those who may find themselves alone at home. “Companion animals can help combat feelings of loneliness,” notes Nancy R. Gee, Ph.D., director of the Center for Human-Animal Interaction at the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine. “Older adults are particularly susceptible to the adverse effects of loneliness.”
Caring for Your Mind:
Interacting with pets, whether it’s snuggling up with your cat on the sofa or engaging in playtime, offers numerous mental health benefits. Studies have shown that such interactions can reduce cortisol levels, a hormone associated with stress, helping you feel more at ease and less anxious. Moreover, the unique bond between humans and animals not only promotes calmness and happiness but also encourages physical activity, thereby positively impacting your overall health. Research from 2023 reveals that pet owners tend to engage in higher levels of physical activity compared to non-pet owners. “Older adults who have pets are more likely to stay active and have a reduced risk of cardiovascular issues,” adds Gee. The responsibility of caring for your pet, such as taking them for walks, can contribute to improved blood pressure and cholesterol levels, as highlighted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Enhancing Cognitive Function:
While it’s understandable that regular dog walks can boost your fitness and mood, pet ownership has also been associated with enhanced cognitive abilities among older individuals. Owning a pet may help mitigate declines in cognitive functions such as memory and decision-making. For those without pets, research suggests that regular interaction with animals can still lead to improved cognitive function, particularly crucial for older adults who may face social isolation. Pets provide companionship, empathy, and social interaction, reducing the risk of conditions like dementia. In fact, having a pet has shown promise in maintaining daily activities for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, potentially slowing down symptom progression.
Choosing the Perfect Pet:
When considering which pet suits your lifestyle best, reflect on your personality and preferred activities. If you appreciate daily walks and adhering to a routine, a dog might be the ideal companion for you, given the necessity of multiple outdoor outings throughout the day.
There are plenty of mature pets in search of loving homes as well — in case you prefer a more relaxed companion without the exuberance and potential shoe-chewing tendencies of a younger animal like a puppy. If you lean towards a fuss-free and less demanding pet, with a penchant for occasional ankle cuddles, a cat might be just the right fit for you. Don’t forget that opting for an older cat instead of a kitten can provide you with a more independent and less needy furry friend. Alternatively, if having a pet freely roaming around your living space isn’t your cup of tea, consider the idea of welcoming a bird or fish into your home.
Being prepared for unexpected changes in life is crucial, including situations where you might become unable to care for your pet. It’s advisable to have a contingency plan in place beforehand, entrusting a reliable individual who would be willing to offer a home to your beloved pet if such a need arises. Whether it’s a close family member or a trusted friend, ensure that the designated person has the necessary space and time to provide long-term support for your pet.
Even if owning a pet is currently not feasible for you, there are still ways to reap the numerous mental and physical benefits while also contributing positively to the community. You could volunteer at a nearby animal shelter or dog training club, or extend a helping hand by walking or pet-sitting for acquaintances, neighbors, or family members when they are occupied or away. Additionally, arranging therapy dog visits through organizations like Pet Partners or the Alliance of Therapy Dogs is a viable option, as these visits are often available free of charge on a regular basis.
Whether on a full-time or part-time basis, the presence of a beloved pet — be it a furry, feathery, or scaly friend — can significantly enhance your overall well-being. If you are interested in further enhancing your cognitive abilities and brain health, consider exploring BrainHQ, a brain-training program developed by leading experts to boost cognitive functions such as speed, focus, and memory. It’s worth checking if this program is included at no additional cost with your Medicare Advantage plan by verifying your eligibility today.
For those seeking more information, various sources explore the impact of pet ownership on different aspects of health and well-being, such as the American Veterinary Medical Association on pets and the pandemic, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on pets and blood pressure as well as cognitive functioning, Innovation in Aging on pet ownership among older individuals, and Scientific Reports, Frontiers in Veterinary Science, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on pets’ role in combating social isolation. Furthermore, the Current Hypertension Reports and the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease delve into the connections between pet ownership and preventing cardiovascular disease as well as Alzheimer’s disease, respectively.
