Understanding How Companion Animals Support Mental and Emotional Wellbeing in Older Adults
As people age, emotional wellbeing often becomes more fragile due to isolation, physical decline, or cognitive changes. While medical care and daily support are essential, attention to mental health and emotional connection can significantly improve quality of life. One method gaining popularity in aged care is pet therapy, also known as animal-assisted therapy.
Pet therapy involves structured interactions between a person and a trained animal, most commonly dogs or cats, to support emotional, social, and sometimes physical needs. These interactions are not just casual visits, they are part of a recognised therapeutic approach.
What Is Pet Therapy?
Pet therapy refers to the use of animals to help improve a person’s mental, physical, or social wellbeing. The animals involved are usually well-trained and selected for their calm nature, patience, and ability to interact gently with people.
For seniors, pet therapy can be delivered in different ways:
- Scheduled visits with therapy animals
- Permanent pet ownership (if appropriate)
- Informal contact with animals in community or home settings
The goal is to provide comfort, emotional stimulation, and connection, particularly for those who may be experiencing loneliness or anxiety.
Emotional and Mental Health Benefits of Companion Animals
1. Reducing Loneliness
Many older adults live alone or have limited contact with family and friends. Animals provide consistent, non-judgmental companionship that helps ease feelings of isolation.
2. Decreasing Stress and Anxiety
Petting a calm animal can have a calming effect, slowing the heart rate and reducing blood pressure. Studies have shown that this physical contact helps lower cortisol (a stress hormone) and can boost mood.
3. Encouraging Emotional Expression
Some seniors may struggle to express emotions in words, especially if they are experiencing cognitive decline. Interacting with animals can offer a non-verbal way to connect and engage emotionally.
Physical and Cognitive Benefits
1. Gentle Physical Activity
Tasks like walking a small dog, brushing fur, or even tossing a ball can promote movement and coordination. These small actions can be valuable for maintaining physical function in older age.
2. Cognitive Stimulation
For individuals with memory issues or early dementia, animals may trigger pleasant memories and help keep the mind active. The presence of a pet can sometimes lead to clearer speech or more focused attention during visits.
3. Daily Structure and Purpose
Routine is important for mental stability. Taking care of an animal, even in a small way, can offer a sense of purpose and rhythm to the day.
Is Pet Ownership or Therapy a Good Fit for Every Senior?
Not all seniors are able to safely or comfortably interact with animals. Allergies, physical limitations, fear of animals, or previous negative experiences should always be considered.
In many cases, therapy animals that visit on a regular basis—rather than full-time pet ownership—offer the best balance. These visits provide the benefits of interaction without the responsibilities of long-term care.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Animals used in therapy should be calm, gentle, and trained.
- Seniors should always be supervised at first, especially if mobility or awareness is a concern.
- Pet interactions should be voluntary and guided by the senior’s interest and comfort level.
Pet therapy is not a substitute for human care, but it can be a powerful complement. Whether it’s the soothing presence of a dog, the gentle purring of a cat, or even watching fish in an aquarium, animals can contribute meaningfully to an older person’s emotional and cognitive wellbeing.
For those supporting aging loved ones—either at home or through professional care—pet therapy is worth exploring as part of a broader approach to healthy, supported ageing.
