Dogs are proven to have numerous benefits for seniors, both in the home and out. They offer companionship and an abundance of unconditional love. And from protecting your garden to giving that much-needed exercise they provide, it’s hard to beat all the advantages that come with owning one.
20 Health Benefits of Having a Dog for Seniors
1. They provide physical activity: Dogs need walks every day, which means that dog owners walk a lot more than usual- about three times as much. The result? A healthier heart, weight loss, and increased fitness levels.
2. They provide mental stimulation: Dogs help seniors stay engaged and upbeat. Having an animal friend keeps us from becoming bored and, therefore, less likely to develop ailments like depression or dementia.
3. They help seniors improve their social life: Elderly people who own dogs are much more likely to make friends than seniors who don’t. Dog ownership is also associated with higher levels of happiness, which means seniors get the companionship they need.
4. They may provide protection: One of the best things about dogs is that they love us unconditionally. Seniors who own dogs are less likely to be victims of crimes than those who do not have furry companions.
5. They can provide a sense of purpose: Seniors who own dogs are likely to have a greater degree of self-reliance than those who don’t. This is because having a pet gives an older person something to look forward to, which may provide them with a reason to get out and exercise and ultimately keep them healthy.
6. They offer companionship: Both humans and dogs need social interaction, which means seniors who own dogs are more sociable and have many more friends than those without pets. They’re also more likely to participate in hobbies and social activities, keeping them healthy overall.
7. They provide a sense of security: Dogs can sense when their owner is feeling upset, which means that they can offer a safe feeling for the elderly person. This will mean less loneliness and depression and more companionship for seniors.
8. They are more likely to live longer: Because dogs can provide physical activity and a sense of purpose, seniors who have dogs are more likely to live longer than those without them. Studies have found that dog owners live over seven years longer on average.
9. They offer unconditional love: One of the best things about ownership is never conditional. When dogs are home, their owners will always be there. In a world where people don’t always show us love, this can be an essential quality in the ways we want.
10. They’re brilliant at communicating: Because dogs talk with their body language and facial expressions, senior citizens who own them are more likely to know when something’s up. This makes them better able to communicate their feelings and needs clearly and appropriately, helping them live healthier, happier lives.
11.They’re great at taking care of themselves: Dogs are master groomers. They know how to take care of themselves, including knowing when it’s time for a bath or hair trim. They also have a very close relationship with their owners and understand when something’s wrong, keeping seniors from feeling isolated or alone.
12. They’re a great excuse to get out: Seniors who own dogs are more likely to take advantage of opportunities for socialization, like going on walks. They also need to get supplies that benefit both of them, which gets them out and about visiting local businesses.
13. They’re loyal companions: Dogs love their owners unconditionally, which can be a wonderful thing for seniors. Dogs don’t care about age, disabilities, or health problems. Their only concern is that their owner is there when they need them.
14. They are great pets for the elderly: Dogs are less likely to develop behavioral problems as they get older. Indeed, studies have found that people who have dogs live longer and report greater well-being than those who don’t.
15. They can help seniors tell time: Dog owners are more likely to tell time than people who own other pets or don’t have a pet at all. This is because dogs like to be fed at specific times and, therefore, their owners learn to associate foods with certain times of the day.
16. They are consistent in their behavior: Dogs always act the same way, making them easier for seniors to understand than people. This means that they provide a sense of stability and consistency that many older people crave.
17. They are happier: There is plenty of evidence to suggest that dog owners are happier and more satisfied with life than people who don’t have pets. This is because having a dog reduces stress, which is good for any senior citizen’s health.
18. They can provide a feeling of purpose: Dogs need exercise and attention. Seniors who own them feel as if they have something to do throughout the day, which can positively affect their health, happiness, and well-being.
19. They encourage their owners to get out of the house: Dog owners are more likely to participate in outdoor activities like walking or running. This is good for the overall health of older people as it gets them moving.
20. They encourage their owners to get exercise: Just like children, dogs need exercise, which means that they encourage their owners to do more physical activity throughout the day. This can help seniors lead healthier, happier lives and possibly even live longer.
In Summary
Dogs are a great source of companionship and unconditional love in a world that is often not kind.
Seniors who have dogs are more likely to lead healthier, happier lives than those who don’t. Dogs promote physical activity, mental stimulation, social connections, and even protection for both their owner and others in the community. The elderly are also more likely to live longer if they own a dog.
