A romping dog or a playful kitten entertains us, makes us laugh and enriches our lives. The unconditional love provided by a pet combats loneliness and depression, common health threats among the elderly. Pets have even been shown to ease the suffering of people who have lost a spouse. Pet ownership also tends to make seniors more active. For example, walking a dog not only provides a pleasant daily exercise routine, but facilitates making friends with other dog-walkers in the neighborhood.
Pets also seem to have the power to physically heal their owners.
Researchers are finding that owning a companion animal significantly lowers blood pressure, decreasing the risk of heart attack and stroke. Studies have also found that pet owners reported fewer headaches, fewer bouts of indigestion and less trouble sleeping. Even non pet-owners can benefit from contact with animals. In nursing homes, data show that pet-therapy reduces the use of prescription drugs for participants. At JABA's Adult Day Healthcare Center, dogs especially trained for interaction visit twice a month.