Pets for the elderly: the benefits

What would you do if your primary healthcare provider told you that there was an effective treatment for many older adults that:

reduced stress

helped them deal with grief and loss

kept them more active

made depression less likely

sometimes helped them live longer

made them less vulnerable to suicide and

increased their feelings of personal security

If you are like most people, you would be interested, especially if you heard that these findings were supported by many scientific studies. Well, the treatment is available, and you do not even need a prescription. The treatment is pet ownership.

What should you consider when choosing a pet? One consideration is the level of care required. Dogs tend to be some of the friendliest and most loving animals, but they need a great deal of care and attention. On the other hand, you can take care of a goldfish in a bowl in a couple of minutes, but it will not cuddle up with you. Make sure you have the house and yard space you need for the kind and size of pet you choose.

Another consideration is cost. Pets can be costly, especially for people on a fixed income. When you are ready to pick out your pet, consider checking with your local animal shelter. Also plan for the costs of immunizations, vet bills, neutering or spaying, and food. The animal shelter or pet store should be able to give you an idea what these costs will be for your pet.

Do you have any allergies that you need to consider? Many people who are allergic to dogs or cats find that they are not allergic to animals like hamsters or chinchillas.

Most people find that there is some kind of pet that they enjoy and can afford. A pet of any kind is a serious responsibility. Do not get a pet for an older friend or relative until you have discussed it with them and have thought about what you will do if he or she cannot care for it. In the same way, it is a good idea to discuss what might happen to pets if someone moves to a nursing home or another facility that will not allow pets.

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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