Companionship, exercise & purpose: Age experts celebrate the benefits of pet ownership in retirement

An estimated 60% of UK households own a pet, with 36% of households owning a dog and 29% having a feline friend.* While owners support their furry friends for life, our pet companions are also a fantastic support for later life. 

To mark National Pet Month, luxury retirement home provider LifeCare Residences, who offer pet-friendly retirement villages, celebrates the benefits pet ownership can bring retirees. 

In a recent resident survey, LifeCare Residences asked residents aged 60-90+ what they are most thankful for in their lives right now, and 10% reported ‘animals and pets’ as the thing they’re most grateful for, with one resident noting “having a dog for companionship” as the element of life they’re most thankful for. 

Pet-friendly retirement perks: Five key benefits of pet ownership in retirement

1. Improved activity: With daily exercise requirements, dog owners often see improvements in their own health as they’re more likely to spend time outdoors walking. The NHS advises that older adults should do at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity per week. A regular dog walk is a fantastic way to keep fitness up. 
    

2. Wellbeing & companionship: Pets provide a sense of belonging and companionship for their owners, with studies showing that pet owners have improved wellbeing, and older pet owners have even been found to have lower blood pressure than non-pet-owning peers.** 
    

3. A focused routine: Caring for a pet comes with responsibilities for feeding, grooming and exercising, a focus which can give structure and routine to daily life, which is often sought after for those who have retired. 
    

4. Increased social engagement: Pets often act as a catalyst for social interactions – from comparing routines, being more present in the community and meeting new people on daily walks – pet owners can benefit from more everyday interactions with their neighbours. 
    

5. Cognitive stimulation: From keeping up with your pet’s daily routine to teaching your companion new tricks, a pet can give a retiree focus and stimulation, bringing new challenges and opportunities to their daily lives that boost cognitive stimulation. Research from the University of Geneva found that cat and dog owners are more likely to experience a slower cognitive decline.*** 

Owning a pet is a wonderful experience, one that can continue into pet-friendly retirement homes, as Battersea Place resident, Jane, explains: 

"I came to Battersea Place attracted to it being a retirement village, but with independent living, having care available as needed at a later stage. I felt it took away any pressure my family might have and stopped them from worrying about me. I was able to come with my dog, and with Battersea Park just over the road, it has been easy for me to go for walks with her. For me, it has been the best decision I have made!"

James Eley, Marketing Manager at LifeCare Residences, says:

“Pets are a fantastic companion to support a full, active and happy life – a partnership that can truly be felt in retirement. Dogs and cats act as loyal companions, helping to combat feelings of loneliness that can arise in later life. Plus, pets often act as a social catalyst to boost your everyday social interaction, from sparking conversations with neighbours to connecting with your local community on a daily dog walk. A pet is a great way to connect with other people around you. 

“Pets offer a comforting routine and sense of purpose for people in retirement, with daily care needs like feeding and walking providing structure to the owner’s day. In particular, dog owners will also benefit from regular walks and adding to their daily step count, which will support long-term physical health. 

“Here at LifeCare Residences, we understand how important pets are for your wellbeing and happiness, and we make every effort to welcome residents with their beloved pets”