Dogs have been shown to reduce depression, particularly in seniors. It's easier to make friends when you have a dog. Life is more social with them. It's healthier too. Seniors with dogs are generally more active because they walk more.
Dogs are friends.
Here again, seniors seem to benefit most. Dogs can help older people deal with the loss of a spouse. Seniors are less likely to experience the deterioration in health that often follows the stressful loss of a mate. Dogs ease loneliness. Perhaps because of the responsibility of dog ownership, seniors take better care of themselves.