The relationships between older, physically impaired men and their pets.

The Relationships Between Older Physically Impaired Males and Their Pets by Jennifer Hughes Williams MA, California State University, Northridge, 1985 BS, University of Southern California, 1981 Dissertation Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy Health Psychology Walden University February 2018 Abstract The present study examined older male adults’ lived experiences with pet ownership. There is robust literature on older adults and the human-animal bond, but presently there are no qualitative phenomenological studies that focus solely on older physically impaired males who live alone and the relationships they have with their pets. With the guiding framework of biopsychosocial theory and using intensive interviews, 10 older males (65+) who suffered from some physical impairment discussed the relationships they have with their pets, and how their companion animals affect their physical, emotional, and social health. All interviews were transcribed, coded, and analyzed for themes. The results showed that the participants believed they could care for their pet despite their physical limitations. The themes and subthemes that emerged from the interviews were companionship, responsibility, plan for death of owner, routine, focus on animal instead of self, physical benefits despite physical limitations, worry about falls, emotional support, and social connections because of the pet. The present study provides new information about changes in the social behaviors of the older male adult in relation to his pet, where the pet aids the individual in relating to other people. The research results may benefit researchers, healthcare workers, and geriatricians who work with the population of older adult, physically impaired, males. The results demonstrate the need for understanding the relationship of the older male adult and his pet and suggests that pets may help the older males increase their socialization.The present study examined older male adults’ lived experiences with pet ownership. There is robust literature on older adults and the human-animal bond, but presently there are no qualitative phenomenological studies that focus solely on older physically impaired males who live alone and the relationships they have with their pets. With the guiding framework of biopsychosocial theory and using intensive interviews, 10 older males (65+) who suffered from some physical impairment discussed the relationships they have with their pets, and how their companion animals affect their physical, emotional, and social health. All interviews were transcribed, coded, and analyzed for themes. The results showed that the participants believed they could care for their pet despite their physical limitations. The themes and subthemes that emerged from the interviews were companionship, responsibility, plan for death of owner, routine, focus on animal instead of self, physical benefits despite physical limitations, worry about falls, emotional support, and social connections because of the pet. The present study provides new information about changes in the social behaviors of the older male adult in relation to his pet, where the pet aids the individual in relating to other people. The research results may benefit researchers, healthcare workers, and geriatricians who work with the population of older adult, physically impaired, males. The results demonstrate the need for understanding the relationship of the older male adult and his pet and suggests that pets may help the older males increase their socialization. The Relationships Between Older Physically Impaired Males and Their Pets by Jennifer Hughes Williams MA, California State University, Northridge, 1985 BS, University of Southern California, 1981 Dissertation Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy Health Psychology Walden University February 2018 Dedication This dissertation is dedicated to my outstanding father, John T. Williams, for his lifelong support of my dreams and endeavors. Without your love and friendship, I could never have reached my goal of obtaining a PhD in Health Psychology. I want to express my gratitude, appreciation, and love for you for always setting the bar high for yourself, which has forever been an inspiration to me. Thank you for everything, Dad. Acknowledgments First, I want to thank my spouse, Joan Henehan, for your undying love and support. Obtaining this degree has been a 7-year adventure and you have been by my side the whole time. Whenever I became discouraged, you were always there for me, motivating me to forge ahead and not worry about the results. You helped me to remember to just focus on the work in front of me. We made it! I love you, Joan. I could not have written this dissertation without the help and guidance of my chairperson and mentor, Dr. Lee Stadtlander. Dr. Lee, thank you for your experience, instruction, and support throughout the entire dissertation process. You are the best. I also would like to thank Dr. Debra Wilson for being my committee member. Your involvement in this manuscript was invaluable and I so appreciate you and respect you. Finally, I would like to thank all of my children, Barbara, Samantha, Ethan, and Bianca for believing in me. I live for all of you.