New Survey Says Pets Help Reduce Stress and Loneliness in Older Adults

A poll from Home Instead Senior Care in Colorado Springs found pets can help ameliorate isolation and loneliness among adults 65 and older, reports Fox21News . Forty-three percent of senior respondents said loneliness is a regular burden for them. "We have found that reducing the anxiety and depression and even blood pressure . . . gets them mobile, it gets them active, which ultimately enhances their lives," noted Home Instead Senior Care owner Jerri Schomaker. The community said seniors with pets may experience a lessening of blood pressure and anxiety, as well as higher endorphin levels as they anticipate interaction. "If they cannot own their own pets, they can still reap the benefits," Schomaker commented. "They can go to a local shelter and volunteer; visit a pet store; go to the dog park; or even have friends, family, and neighbors and interact with their pets."