How Pets Can Protect Cognitive Health in Older Adults
Pets offer more than just companionship—they can significantly boost both physical and mental health, especially for older adults. Recent studies reveal that pet ownership can help slow cognitive decline and even prevent dementia. Here’s how furry friends can make a difference.
Pets and Cognitive Health: The Research
Slowing Cognitive Decline
A study published in JAMA Network Open found that for nearly 8,000 older adults living alone, having a pet was linked to slower cognitive decline, particularly in verbal cognition, memory, and fluency. Over an eight-year period, data from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing showed that pet owners had better cognitive health.
Cognitive decline can diminish quality of life and increase burdens on caregivers and healthcare systems. Older adults living alone are at higher risk, but pet ownership might help mitigate this risk. For many, adding a pet to the household is a manageable and rewarding change.
The Well-Being Boost from Pets
Dogs and Dementia Risk
Another study, published in Preventive Medicine Reports in 2023, discovered that dog owners have a lower risk of dementia compared to non-dog owners. This study analyzed data from over 11,000 older adults over four years, adjusting for various factors.
Dog ownership encourages regular exercise, as walking a dog becomes a routine activity. This physical activity, coupled with the social interactions that come from being a dog owner, helps reduce isolation and loneliness—key factors in lowering dementia risk. Dog owners who walk their dogs are 2.5 times more likely to achieve at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week compared to those without dogs.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, many dog owners maintained their physical activity and social interactions despite restrictions, further showcasing the benefits of pet ownership.
Furry Friends Welcome at Senior Star
At Senior Star, we recognize the profound impact pets have on our residents’ lives. Daily activities with pets—like walks, playtime, and pet care—keep our residents active and engaged. That’s why our communities are pet-friendly, featuring dog parks and beautiful campuses perfect for walking pets.
We invite you and your loved ones to experience the joy and benefits of living in a Senior Star community. Come take a tour and explore our diverse living options, from independent living to assisted living and memory care.
Contact us today and discover how Senior Star can help you or your loved ones thrive with the love and companionship of pets.
Source: American Psychiatric Association