When older folks are forced to move into smaller, multi-unit housing, perhaps after the death of their spouse, many learn that their cat or dog must be given up too. So, in addition to the depressing human loss, they face additional loneliness with out the benefit of a beloved pet's companionship. Some folks become angry, some are grief-stricken, and most want and need someone to do something about their crises. The benefits of pet ownership to physical and emotional health in people has been well researched and documented. Recent studies have concluded that pets help young children with learning language skills and accepting responsibility.
Pets even contribute to the development of self esteem.
Older adults are much less likely to suffer depression, and have fewer doctors' visits, if they share their lives with an animal. Heart surgery patients with pets recover more quickly that those without. In fact, some life insurance companies now offer discounts to older policy holders with pets, because statistics show that they live longer. As a result, legislation is in place in the U.S. that allows seniors in federally funded housing to have pets. But property owners and managers have legitimate concerns about pets, which have caused their seemingly blanket policy.