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Why Seniors Should Own Pets

Dogs, cats, rabbits, and birds are all wonderful pets that can bring joy to their owners. While some seniors may see owning a pet as a hassle, there come many benefits with being a pet owner. Research has been done that for seniors, who often live alone or in group facilities, pets can help reduce stress, lower blood pressure, increase social interaction, and help them learn.

According to Dr. Jay P. Granat, a New Jersey psychotherapist, “Dogs—and other pets—live very much in the here and now. They don’t worry about tomorrow. And tomorrow can be very scary for an older person. By having an animal with that sense of now, it tends to rub off on people.”

Owning a pet can also help reduce depression and lessen loneliness. As a wonderful and very cute distraction, pets help seniors focus on something other than physical problems and negative thoughts about loss or aging.

Pets benefit too since they get adopted and receive a new loving home. There are many things to consider before buying a pet, but just know there are many wonderful benefits that come with being a pet owner (and it’s never too late!).