5 ways a pet can boost your health and help those who live alone

Did you know more than a quarter of people in the United States live by themselves?¹ Many people may enjoy living on their own. However, it could also come with an increased risk of loneliness. That’s especially true if you’re 45 or older with 1 in 3 adults feeling lonely.²

Loneliness may affect your mental health, causing feelings of depression and anxiety.³ Plus, it may take a toll on your physical health. Loneliness can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke and dementia.²

Studies suggest that spending time with a pet may help in reducing social isolation.³ Read on to learn how a pet could benefit your health.

Social connections are important for overall wellness. “Pets are not superior to interpersonal relationships — but for older adults who have fewer social connections or who are less connected to others, pets may help replace some of that companionship,” says Dr. Aziz.³

Any pet owner will tell you the bond they have with their animal is special (many may rival a close human relationship). Pets offer unconditional love, explains Gail Saltz, M.D., a clinical associate professor of psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medical College in New York.

“Dog walkers already know this, but having a pet is a great way to connect with other people,” says Dr. Aziz. If you take your dog out in public, their cute little face and wagging tail could be a natural conversation starter. That bond with a fellow animal lover could be the start of a social connection — and may even help foster a friendship.

Knowing a pet relies on you may give you a reason to wake up in the morning and do certain activities. These could include things like feeding your pet breakfast or taking them for a walk. This daily routine and sense of purpose may help ease feelings of depression, Dr. Aziz adds.

Having a dog, in particular, may help people get outside and be more active. People who have other pets, like cats, birds or reptiles might also enjoy similar activities. They may take them on a walk or out for a stroll at the pet store. For older adults, walking an extra quarter mile each day (inside or outside) lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke.⁴

Loneliness can cause an inflammatory stress response, which may lead to heart problems.⁵ This same inflammatory response can also contribute to depression, notes Dr. Aziz. Having a pet you can walk may offer the most heart health benefits and may help reduce the risk of death from stroke and heart attack.⁶

Not quite ready to become a pet owner? Check with local organizations about visiting therapy animals. Or, choose to volunteer at a local animal shelter. That way, you’ll still reap the benefits of pet companionship without having to own a pet yourself.