Health and Wellness: Pets can provide plenty of love for seniors

Submitted by GRANDPAWS K-9 INTERACTIVE CARE

As loved ones and friends move or pass away and out-of-the-home experiences may be limited, aging can become a lonely process.

Pets can go a long way toward providing a source of love and companionship for seniors, however.

A recent study by The National Poll on Healthy Aging indicates that 79% of aging adults find stress relief in their pets, and about 34% of elderly pet owners indicate a reduction in pain around their furry friends. Additionally, sleep and inflammation improve with the presence of a pet.

In addition, University of Michigan researchers have found a link between owning a pet for five or more years to a delay of brain aging in adults around the age of 65.

“Prior studies have suggested that the human-animal bond may have health benefits like decreasing blood pressure and stress,” Dr. Tiffany Braley of the University of Michigan Medical Center, who authored the study, said in a press release. “Our results (also) suggest pet ownership may also be protective against cognitive decline.”

Finally, pet ownership for seniors can often combat depression.

Want to learn more about pets, and how to care for them? Grandpaw’s K-9 Interactive Care can be reached at 919-255-8322 or via email at grandpawsjames@gmail.com.

According to American Humane, studies show that “a pet for seniors helps them overcome loneliness and depression by providing affection, company, entertainment and a sense of responsibility.”