Researchers analyzed data from the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging. This was a national study on adult development and aging that recruited over 50,000 Canadians aged 45 to 85. The researchers found that more than one-third of older Canadians choose to age with their pets and that, for some people, living with pets increases life satisfaction.
My research is focused on social justice, aging, and the bond between humans and animals. Recently, I collaborated with the federal government to produce a report on seniors and aging in place.
In my research for this report, I found that there are no government funds to assist older adults in caring for their pets.
It is unfortunate because, for Canadians, the relationship between humans and non-human companions has grown in importance. Although the relationship between people and their animals may seem trivial, it has a surprising impact on people’s health and wellness.
It is fiscally responsible to help people who are in need pay for their pets, as the bond between humans and animals could reduce healthcare costs in the future.
Ageing in place and pets
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention define aging in place as “the ability to age in one’s home and community comfortably, safely and independently, regardless of income, ability or age.”
Staying put as you age is linked to decreased depression, maintaining your identity, staying in touch with friends, family, and community, as well as avoiding the emotional and physical pain that comes with moving from a familiar environment.
Many older adults consider their pets to be members of the family. Interactions with animals are important not only for companionship but also for better health. A study in Germany and Australia showed that pet owners were healthier and visited the doctor less frequently than those who did not own pets. Researchers have found that the human-animal relationship is associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. Lower blood pressure and lower cholesterin.
Many older adults consider their pets to be part of the family. (Shutterstock)
According to research, people who own pets also tend to be less isolated and have stronger social networks. They are also more likely to participate in community activities.
Many older adults don’t have enough money to retire. In such cases, caring for pets may be too costly.
The development of community support programs aimed at keeping older adults and pets together is expected to lead to savings for healthcare systems and social programs.
Climate change dangers
Climate change and its impact on health is another concern when it comes to aging pets.
In order to reduce heat-related deaths in older adults, it is important to create community support initiatives. The vulnerability of older adults to extreme heat has been well documented. This is also true for those who are suffering from more than one disease and for those who are socially isolated.
Some older adults prefer to remain in their hot homes with their pets, as they don’t have any other options to care for their animal companions. By giving air conditioners to older adults who cannot afford them on their own, the heat-related problems of older adults could be relieved.
The Camp Fire, which raged in Paradise (Calif.) on Nov. 8, 2018, saw people abandon their vehicles and run on foot. Some were clutching their pets. (AP Photo/Noah Berger)
In developing plans to assist older adults who are facing climate-related hazards, it is important to consider the fact that some individuals have decided not to evacuate when severe weather conditions occur because they cannot bring their pets. Government programs that provide pet vaccinations and evacuate older adults along with their pets to go to emergency shelters could increase compliance with evacuation orders.
In the United States, there have been modifications to disaster plans and disaster preparedness exercises in response to the rescue of companion animals. Mental well-being can be improved by ensuring pets are evacuated from disaster areas and reunited with their owners.
It would be beneficial to integrate new initiatives into existing community support programs that help older adults take care of the animals they share their lives with. This could promote wellness and reduce health costs in the long run.
