Having a pet improves health in old age too, according to a study

Having a pet improves health in old age too, according to a study

Environment · ·

Older people who have a four-legged friend live longer and better. That is what recent research reveals.

Adopting a pet can be an excellent way for older people to extend their lives and spend their post-retirement years in good health. This is what emerges from the data in the Senior Italia Federanziani report and from the Over 65 e animali da compagnia survey by Anmvi. Both studies find that having a dog or a cat is fundamental in helping people lead a healthy and active life even after retirement: more than 89 per cent of respondents take their dog for a walk; 78.7 per cent do so at least twice a day. For the majority of older people, the presence of a pet also has a positive effect on mental health, largely eliminating stress and depression and giving a sense of purpose to daily life.

Read also: Walking with your dog is good for you

anziani e cani
Having a dog helps you forget minor and major physical and psychological problems, and makes it easier to form friendships © Pixabay

Older people and pets, a winning choice

Analysis carried out by the Senior Italia research centre shows that dog owners are 57 per cent more likely to engage in physical activity than those without pets. Older people who live with a dog are in better shape, to the point of being biologically 10 years younger. According to the Senior Italia Federanziani observatory, the over-65s are responsible owners who are always attentive to veterinary care and the constant looking-after of their four-legged friend.

Read also: In Umbria, those who adopt a stray enjoy many benefits

anziani e animali domestici
Pets allow people to rediscover cohesion and a sense of community: at every age! © Pixabay

The health benefits

The physical advantages of choosing a pet as a companion are considerable. According to the report, walking an average of one hour and forty minutes a day would produce several results: 432,000 diabetics with fewer complications, with savings of around 1.2 billion euros; a reduction in the incidence of cardiovascular disease (-7 per cent) with savings of around 1.3 billion euros; higher self-esteem (+6 per cent); higher levels of physical exercise (+10.5 per cent); and a lower incidence of depression (-5.73 per cent) compared with those who do not own pets, with savings of around 252,000 euros a year. In total, the estimated possible savings for the National Health Service would amount to around 2.7 billion a year.