This is another study which strongly supports the now accepted view that cat and/or dog companionship can compensate for the lack of a human network in single, over-50 people, living alone which is associated with a more rapid mental decline. I have presented the findings of this Chinese study in an infographic for succinctness. The study findings are well-suited to an infographic as there is one conclusion.
Study citation: Li Y, Wang W, Zhu L, et al. Pet Ownership, Living Alone, and Cognitive Decline Among Adults 50 Years and Older. JAMA Netw Open. 2023;6(12):e2349241. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.49241
Why is living alone a risk factor for mental decline in old age?
Living alone doesn’t guarantee mental decline in older adults, but research suggests it can be a risk factor. Here’s why:
- Social isolation: Living alone often leads to social isolation, which means a lack of social connections and interactions. Social interaction is important for mental stimulation and keeping the mind sharp.
- Loneliness: Even with some social contact, loneliness, the feeling of being alone, can creep in. Loneliness can lead to depression and a lack of motivation to engage in activities that keep the mind active.
- Health monitoring: People who live alone may miss medical appointments or signs of health problems that could contribute to cognitive decline if left untreated.
It’s important to note that living with others isn’t always a guarantee of protection. Some studies have found that living with difficult family members can be stressful and contribute to cognitive decline.
Here are some things that can help mitigate the risks of living alone:
- Strong social network: Maintaining strong social connections with friends and family is important.
- Regular social activities: Participating in social activities like clubs or volunteering can provide social interaction and mental stimulation.
- Pet ownership: Studies suggest pet ownership can help reduce loneliness and improve cognitive function in older adults.
If you’re concerned about yourself or someone you know who lives alone, talking to a doctor or therapist can be a good first step.
Source for the above: Google Gemini which searches many sources on the internet.
RELATED: Elderly people should live with a cat or dog
Cat and dog owners regard their pets as equivalent to a human companion?
It’s not quite as clear-cut as pets being exact equivalents to human companions for all cat and dog owners. Here’s a breakdown:
- Strong emotional bond: Many cat and dog owners develop a strong emotional bond with their pets. Surveys show over 90% consider them family members [1]. They provide companionship, reduce stress, and offer unconditional love.
- Not quite human equivalent: Owners typically understand pets aren’t human replacements. There are limitations in communication and the kind of complex interactions possible with human companions. Studies suggest dog owners might feel slightly “more” bonded than cat owners, but the difference is small [2].
- Individual variations: The way people view their pets varies. Some treat them like children, while others see them as furry friends.
So, while pets aren’t human replacements, the emotional connection and companionship they offer can be significant and contribute to a person’s well-being, especially for those who might live alone.
RELATED: Benefits Of Enduring Memory Of Lost Pets For Dementia Sufferers
The relationship cuts two ways
I mentioned above how pets can benefit us in old age and indeed at all times but it works the other way as well. And we have a duty towards our pets to ensure their welfare and safety. And so, another study looks at that aspect of the relationship; finding that dog owners should teach their old dog new tricks as it protects them from dementia.
The scientists found that dog cognition increased as an average rate of 1.74% each year if the dogs engaged in free play and exercise daily. They looked at the brain structures of 43 middle-aged beagles over three years. The study was conducted at the University of Kentucky and the University of California and they published their findings in The Journal of Neuroscience.
The study looked at dogs but the same can be said about cats. And this brings to mind a very important aspect of cat caregiving namely making the full-time indoor environment enriched to ensure that the cats are mentally stimulated and able to express their natural desires and motivations.
Not enough is being done under the modern trend to keep cats indoors full-time to ensure that they are mentally stimulated to prevent mental decline.
