Pet Ownership Patterns and Successful Aging Outcomes in Community Dwelling Older Adults
Erika Friedmann, Nancy R. Gee, Eleanor M. Simonsick, Stephanie A. Studenski, Barbara Resnick, Erik Barr, Melissa Kitner‐Triolo, Alisha Hackney
Abstract
PO is lower at older ages, which mirrors the general pattern of poorer cognitive and physical function, and psychological status at older ages. PO and regular contact with pets (including PO) are associated with better cognitive status compared with those who did not own pets or had no regular contact with pets independent of age. Dog ownership was related to better physical function. Longitudinal analysis is required to evaluate the association of PO and/or regular contact with maintenance of health status over time.
Topics & Concepts
GerontologyPopulationCognitionMedicineCognitive declineDemographyPsychologyEnvironmental healthDiseaseDementiaPsychiatryPathologySociologyHuman-Animal Interaction StudiesAnimal Behavior and Welfare StudiesAging and Gerontology Research