Why dogs help us as we age.
There is one thing for certain, the longer we live the older we get. So why is it in the modern world we often set aside the needs of older adults? We seem to glorify youth and do everything possible to erase the aging process including hiding away the aged. If we are so lucky to hit our 60s, 70s, 80s how do we want our communities to treat us? And if you are in your 60s, 70s, 80s, how do you want us to consider you?
In this blog post, we will look at the rising issues surrounding an aging population and their mental health risk. We will then discuss the impact our canine friends can have on seniors and the elderly.
Health Risk Implications of Aging
Older adults (age 60 and up) are a rapidly increasing population. The World Health Organization projects that between 2015 and 2050 the world’s senior population will nearly double. This has implications for public health as well as individual health care needs.
Another important implication is the mental health of the senior and elderly population especially because they are particularly vulnerable mental health-wise. Here is why:
They experience stressors such as declining functional abilities and increased risk of physical illness.
They are more likely to experience loss and bereavement.
They are vulnerable to elder abuse. (1 in 6 elders are being abused usually by a family member)
Their finances may change due to retirement.
They are at an increased risk of loneliness and isolation (this was especially seen during the COVID-19 lockdowns)
They are at risk for neurological and cognitive deterioration.
The most common mental health and neurological problems in this population are anxiety, depression, and dementia. Also, people over 85 have the highest suicide rate compared to any age group.
Hope is not lost!
According to a report from the WHO, research suggests that social connections and personal contacts are one of the most important mental health lubricants for seniors and elderly and the best part about these findings is our canine friends can play a vital role in this social support!
How Dogs Play a Helpful Role
A few ways dogs help us age healthily and help older adults overall (as concluded by HABRI-lead research):
Dogs provide emotional support.
Dogs have been found reduce stress and regulate cortisol levels
They provide companionship and reduce loneliness
They can reduce depression symptoms
They promote low blood pressure, healthy cholesterol levels, and decrease risk of heart disease
They keep us physically active.
They helps us invest or reinvest in life/ provide us a reason to live
They can inspire new interests for example hiking, or meeting up with other dog parents at the park.
They help us stay connected to life and to social supports
They help us create routine which is especially helpful for retired people.
Living with a dog can be a lot of responsibility, therefore there are other ways that older adults can reap the benefits of interacting with dogs. Many nursing homes and hospitals have dog therapy programs where dogs come to visit and provide fun, comfort, and connection. The more we raise awareness and spread the word of how dogs can help the elderly hopefully the more healthcare providers can recommend a little canine therapy or places that house elder folks can create routines and programs that include therapy dogs.
In many cultures around the world and our more ancient cultures, the elderly were always highly respected because of their knowledge and wisdom. Let’s get back to that place. They are a wealth of information. Next time you see your elderly neighbor or talk to the older generation in your family remember to connect with them and hey maybe even suggest they interact with a dog.
