Do Pets Help Protect the Aging Brain?

A study out of the University of Michigan finds that seniors who live with pets for five or more years have better cognitive memory than those who live without furry roommates. The researchers point out that their findings show correlation, not necessarily causation, but the case for cause is strong.

“We do not recommend pet ownership as a therapeutic intervention,” the researchers write in the Journal of Aging and Health. “However, if a causal link exists between sustained pet ownership and cognitive health, older adults who are interested in or committed to pet ownership could benefit from social policies and community partnerships to provide support for owners.”

The study took place over six years surveying – and testing – more than 20,000 adults in the US over fifty years old. People who owned pets performed better on short- and long-term memory tests than non-pet owners. The so-called “pet effect” was apparent in folks over 65, right around the time when symptoms of dementia can begin to show.

Why would pets in the house help an aging brain? Owning a dog entails movement, at least a couple of daily walks, and exercise is associated with better brain function. Cats involve us in more subtle ways as in making us get up and open tins.  

Or maybe there’s no causal relationship. It could be that people with better cognitive function are simply more inclined to keep pet companions later in life!