Research that was published in the Journal of Personality & Social Psychology discovered that pets represented critical social relationships and substantial benefits to their owners. Senior pet owners demonstrated higher self-esteem, were less lonely, more physically fit, more socially outgoing, and more conscientious.
As a matter of fact, our pets are such a positive influence on our lives that research also found that ownership of dogs and cats saved roughly $3.86B in health expenditure over a year.
What are the mental benefits?
Research also has proven that pet ownership may have numerous psychological benefits.
For people who live with dementia who might experience a hard time using language, pets may be soothing and even can assist such individuals in speaking and articulating themselves when comfortable.
Animals offer a chance for non-verbal communication which may aid in engaging those who suffer with dementia and Alzheimer’s.
Recent research performed in Germany involved canines that visited 17 nursing home residents who suffered with dementia. The research discovered that the participants who were involved with the animal assisted therapy sessions experienced better verbal communication functionality and more attentiveness after the program’s completion. Lifestyle changes, side effects of medication, and changes in personal circumstances all can result in elderly individuals feeling less connected. However, there are a host of things to do to keep the blues away, which includes cuddling up to a soft pet. Research on animal-assisted therapy’s effectiveness measured mood and well-being in nursing home residents. The participants who’d spent time with pets reported feeling ‘inspired,’ ‘interested,’ and ‘enthusiastic’ substantially more than the ones who didn’t spend time with animals.
Also, pets play a crucial part in assisting humans in recovering from loss. Seniors who’d recently lost a husband or wife fared a lot better if they had a solid attachment to an animal. They suffered substantially less depression, with their animals offering a powerful buffering impact against stress and grief.
What are the physical benefits of pets?
Research by the RSCPA has exhibited that pet ownership may have numerous physical health benefits, which includes:
- An increase in heart health (in men, lower cholesterol, lower triglycerides, and lower blood pressure)
- An increase in physical activity. Dogs, in particular, help to get us out and appreciate the outdoors while being involved in regular exercise. They’re fantastic personal trainers and motivators, and never want to miss out on a training session no matter what the weather holds.
- Fewer trips to a physician
The Baker Medical Research Institution performed a study of 5,741 participants over a 3-year time period. They found lower cholesterol and blood pressure levels in pet owners than in the ones who don’t have pets, even after taking into account personal factors like smoking, weight, and diet status.
Optimum Personal Care offers pet therapy to our residents for enhanced outlook and improved mental stimulation. To learn more contact us in Missouri City, TX at 281.565.4144.