Pet vs Seniors - What are the Benefits?

There are supporters and opponents of pets. The discussion about taking a cat or a dog into the home is a discussion that is being conducted in many families. But even as a senior, people often think about adopting a pet. Advantages and disadvantages are considered, but some advantages and disadvantages are sometimes overlooked. We try to list all the positive and negative characteristics of pets for seniors. Today, the benefits of a pet for seniors. Benefits In an American study into the benefits of a pet for seniors, more than 2000 "seniors" between 50 and 80 years were questioned. More than half of this group said they had a pet. Almost 90% of pet owners indicated that their pets made sure they enjoyed life more. Around 85% felt more loved by the presence of a pet. Another remarkable fact was that no less than 80% of seniors indicated that they had less stress with a four-legged friend. Perfect Partner of your loneliness Loneliness is generally associated with many physical complaints. It has been known for some time that loneliness is a growing problem among seniors. More than 40% of seniors state that they regularly experience lonely. Loneliness increases stress, causes sleeping problems, increases the chance of inflammation and therefore results in generally poorer health. Adopting a pet would reduce the feeling of loneliness and improve health. More than 70% of the seniors surveyed indicated that a pet helped them to cope with physical and emotional problems. A dog increases the happiness of seniors Pets do more than just support the physical and mental health of seniors. For example, 45% of seniors with physical complaints indicate that having a pet eases their pain. This is mainly due to the fact that pets keep seniors away from the pain. A study by "Pain Magazine" in 2012 shows that therapy dogs relieve the pain and emotional stress of chronic pain patients. Looking into the dog's eyes releases the hormone oxytocin in the brain. This hormone provides a cheerful feeling and would promote happiness. Low depression Another plus to pets is that they keep their owners on a daily routine. From the moment you retire, it is also necessary to structure your days. Life and the days must retain a purpose. If this is not the case, the senior can slip more into a depression. Getting up on time for your pet, feeding and drinking, regularly leaving outside, playing with the animal, these are all things that help keep a pattern in the day. rnMore than 60% of the seniors surveyed said they create regularity by keeping a pet. It is one of the small benefits of a pet for seniors, but certainly not to be underestimated. No less than 73% said their pet gives them a purpose in life. Caring for and playing with an animal promotes the physical and emotional resilience of seniors. Increase in Social contact People and especially seniors enjoy socializing. A pet makes your home instantly cozier. The food and water bowl, the basket, the cupboards filled with animal food, toys and of course just the presence of the animal itself, are all factors that contribute to the coziness of a home. In addition, animals have a socially binding factor. No less than 65% of seniors with a pet indicate that they come into contact with other people through their pet. This can happen during a walk where you meet other seniors. But also a visit to the vet, dog club or just while shopping. People with pets speak to other people with pets much more easily. You always have a topic to start a conversation. We stay young and longer And perhaps one of the most important benefits of a pet for seniors: Pets stop aging. As people get older, the physical effort of a person deteriorates. Nevertheless, as a senior, it is advisable to exercise at least 150 minutes moderately. 65% of seniors with a pet and no less than 80% of seniors with a dog indicated to be more physically active under the influence of their pet. The consequences speak for themselves, lower BMI, lower blood pressure, lower heart rate and lower blood sugar levels. These benefits have a positive impact on health, resulting in fewer doctor visits. The benefits of having a pet for seniors is obvious. Next week we will look at the other side of the coin and we will see what the disadvantages of pets are.