The Cognitive Benefits of Having Pets for Soloagers

There is increasing evidence that seniors who live alone or in social isolation may face a range of adverse health effects, including depression, compromised immune function, and an increased risk of dementia.

However, if you consider joining the ranks of the nation’s growing population of soloagers—those who are ageing alone by choice or circumstance—there is promising news from a recent study that suggests a potential solution: it comes with four legs!

A study conducted in 2023 by researchers from the School of Public Health at Sun Yat-sen University in Guangzhou, China, examines the impact of pet ownership on mitigating the link between living alone and an increased risk of cognitive decline. 

Utilising data from 7,945 participants aged 50 and older from the English Longitudinal Study of Aging (ELSA), an ongoing investigation of adults living in the community in the U.K., researchers at Sun Yat-sen University analysed the cognitive skill decline rates of pet owners compared to non-pet owners over a nine-year period.

The study has found that pet ownership was linked to a slower decline in both verbal memory and verbal fluency among individuals living alone. However, no significant difference was observed in cognitive decline rates between pet owners who lived with others and those who did not.

Pets for Soloagers: The Cognitive Benefits of Having Pets at Home

Social interaction and emotional support

Pets provide companionship that can alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation, both significant risk factors for cognitive decline. The presence of a pet often encourages social interactions, which are crucial for maintaining cognitive function. For example, dog owners are more likely to engage in physical activities like walking their dogs, which can further enhance social connections and overall well-being. 

Routine and responsibility

Caring for a pet introduces a daily routine that can help maintain mental engagement and physical activity. This structured responsibility can be particularly beneficial for older adults, as it fosters a sense of purpose and routine, both of which are essential for cognitive health.

Physical activity

Studies have shown that dog owners tend to engage in more regular exercise compared to non-owners. Regular physical activity is linked to better cognitive function and reduced risk of dementia. Specifically, dog walking has been associated with achieving recommended levels of moderate physical activity, which is crucial for maintaining cognitive health as one ages.

Pets for seniors, especially soloagers, not only provide companionship but also contribute significantly to maintaining cognitive function. As research continues to evolve, it becomes increasingly clear that our furry friends may play a crucial role in fostering healthy ageing.