All of these activities require some action from owners. Even if it s just getting up to let a dog out a few times a day or brushing a cat, any activity can benefit the cardiovascular system and help keep joints limber and flexible. Consistently performing this kind of minor exercise can keep pet owners able to carry out the normal activities of daily living. Pets may also aid seniors simply by providing some physical contact. Many benefits of pet ownership are less tangible, though.
Pets are an excellent source of companionship, for example.
They can act as a support system for older people who don t have any family or close friends nearby to act as a support system. The JAGS study showed that people with pets were better able to remain emotionally stable during crises than those without. Pets can also work as a buffer against social isolation. Often the elderly have trouble leaving home, so they don t have a chance to see many people. Pets give them a chance to interact.