Pets for Seniors

Why Pets Matter for Seniors

Pets can be the reason we get out of bed in the morning. They provide companionship and help to relieve a sense of loneliness and isolation.

According to the CDC, people over the age of 65 need 150 minutes of moderate physical activity each week, such as a brisk walk. Several research studies have shown that dog owners walk an average of 23 minutes more per day than non-dog owners do — roughly the equivalent of a 10-minute morning, afternoon, and evening walk. Walking your dog has been shown to reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve memory. A daily walk also helps strengthen the muscles used for balance and coordination, which is important for fall prevention.