Just as family and friends can be companions, pets can be companions as well. Research continues to show that companion animals may help reduce loneliness, encourage physical activity, and support emotional well-being. While a pet is not a substitute for hands-on care and connections, it makes a meaningful difference in the quality of life for many loved ones. The type and size of the pet matter and should be considered when deciding whether to allow pets in the caregiving space.
Research Findings on Pets
Research also suggests pets may support emotional, physical, and social well-being, though benefits vary based on the elder’s health, lifestyle, and ability to care for a pet(University of Michigan, 2025). University of Michigan’s 2025 National Poll on Healthy Aging found:
· 55% of adults age 50 and older have at least one pet.
· 83% say their pet gives them a sense of purpose.
· 71% say their pet helps them enjoy life.
· 64% say their pet helps them feel loved.
Dogs and cats remain the most common companion animals among older adults(University of Michigan, 2025).
Benefits of Having a Pet
Pets can change the mood and attitude and increase activity in our elders. Pets can address anxiety and loneliness and can prevent depression. Pets can encourage activities like walking, increase physical activity, and even improve balance. Pets can also reduce stress. This is done by petting, feeding, and cuddling.
Types of Pets to Ponder
Dogs, cats, fish, rabbits, and birds have been some of the top pets for elders. Each comes with concerns for ensuring their care. The size of the pets matters. For example, large dogs are not ideal for elders. They require much more time and energy. Energy that our elders may not have. Large dogs can also cause falls. Animals in cages(birds, rabbits) are fun to watch and easy to feed. You can get a good laugh out loud watching pets in cages do what they do.
Pet Care
Caregivers will need to help with pet care and cleaning cages. With all pets, cost and care must be built into the equation. Keeping pets healthy can be costly, along with the food they will need to eat. This can be challenging for elderly loved ones on a fixed income. Also, have a plan in case your loved one can no longer care for their pets.
As Your Proactive Caregiver Advocate, owning a pet is wonderful. Keeping them healthy and clean is necessary in eldercare. Selecting the right type of pet, size, and breed is very important. Proper pet care involves not only providing food and water, but also medical care, exercise, affection, and socialization. A healthy pet experience is the goal. Be Safe! Be Well!
Dr. Cynthia J. Hickman is a retired registered nurse and case manager who serves as the CEO of Your Proactive Caregiver Advocate. She is excited to share her latest book, The Essential Caregiver Training Course for Corporations and Community. Her previous work, From the Lens of a Daughter, Nurse, and Caregiver: A Journey of Duty and Honor, and The Black Book of Important Information for Caregivers, reflects her experiences and insights from her heartfelt caregiving journey.