It’s clear that Brits love their pets. In fact, research has shown that 51% of UK adults own a pet of some kind.
While you may already understand the everyday joys of caring for an animal, new research suggests that pet ownership may offer more than just companionship.
Indeed, some scientists now believe that owning a dog or cat could help preserve brain function as you age.
With dementia rates around the world continuing to rise in recent years, this is welcome news.
According to Alzheimer's Disease International, in 2020, there were more than 55 million people around the world living with dementia. This number is expected to double every 20 years, reaching 78 million in 2030, and climbing as high as 139 million in 2050.
While there’s currently no cure for dementia, certain lifestyle choices – including owning a pet – could help protect your long-term cognitive health and slow down ageing. Keep reading to find out how.
Companionship with cats and dogs could decrease your risk of cognitive decline
At first glance, it can sound surprising that owning a cat or dog could affect your mental sharpness.
Yet, a new study has shown there is a clear link between pet ownership and cognitive resilience.
Researchers found that adults who owned a dog or cat showed slower rates of decline in certain areas of brain function – especially memory and verbal fluency – compared to those who did not own a pet.
This was especially noticeable with older adults and retirees.
Owning a pet often leads to a healthier lifestyle
A possible explanation for the difference could lie in the lifestyle that owning a pet tends to encourage.
If you own a dog, you’re more likely to spend time walking outdoors, which increases your levels of physical activity.
Regular movement has long been associated with healthier brain function and slower cognitive decline.
Even cat owners, who might not get out for walks as often, may benefit from increased activity, especially if it brings its prey into your home.
Living with an animal can also create strict daily routines and responsibilities, both of which can offer much-needed mental stimulation that can protect against cognitive ageing.
Companionship can also play a role. Loneliness and social isolation have both been linked to higher levels of anxiety and depression. These can, in turn, result in an increased chance of dementia.
Having a pet can offer some comfort, reduce stress levels, and even offer a sense of purpose, especially during retirement when your social circles might reduce.
Interestingly, the same study noted that people who owned birds or fish did not experience the same cognitive benefits.
One theory for this is that these pets tend to require less interaction and, in some cases, live shorter lives. This could mean the emotional effects are less pronounced.
Some researchers even suggest that noisy birds could negatively affect sleep quality, resulting in cognitive decline.
There are many other ways pets can support your long-term health
Of course, the benefits of pet ownership don’t stop with reducing mental decline – they can also support you in other ways...
You may feel less stressed
Spending time with a pet can quickly help you feel more relaxed and less stressed. This is because stroking a cat or dog can lower your heart rate and reduce cortisol, the brain’s stress hormone.
Doing so can also release feel-good chemicals such as oxytocin, improving your general mood.
Over time, this could help reduce the risk of chronic stress-related conditions, such as high blood pressure or cardiovascular disease.
You might find that your self-confidence is boosted
Caring for an animal comes with significant responsibility, which can be somewhat empowering.
Indeed, sticking to feeding schedules, daily walks, and providing general care can give you a sense of usefulness and structure.
These commitments might even reinforce your self-worth, especially at times of considerable change (such as retiring).
They can add structure to your life
In many cases, pets can nudge you into a sense of consistency. This might be a result of getting up earlier to let them out, maintaining regular mealtimes, or building your day around their needs.
Having a routine can be a practical way to maintain good mental health, all while regulating sleep and eating patterns. These can, over time, support your long-term wellbeing.
They may help you meet new people
As mentioned, pets can offer incredible companionship, especially during the next phase of your life.
Yet, one thing you might still miss is interacting with other people. While you’ll likely talk to your pet, you can’t hold “real” back-and-forth conversations with them. Fortunately, you may find more opportunities to meet other pet lovers during dog walks or visits to the vet.
Even brief interactions could reduce feelings of isolation as your pet acts as the perfect way to break the ice with those around you.
