How Long-Term Dog Ownership Benefits Cognitive Health

Dog lovers rejoice! A recent study suggests that long-term dog ownership may slow down cognitive decline associated with dementia.

While Alzheimer’s disease can be passed down genetically, lifestyle habits among older adults can also play a crucial role in determining the likelihood of developing dementia. Researchers have found a significant portion — approximately one-third — of dementia cases stem from lifestyle factors.

Modifiable habits, such as engaging in regular exercise and eating a balanced diet, can reduce the risk of developing dementia. Additionally, older adults experiencing cardiovascular disease, depression, chronic stress and loneliness are at significantly higher risk of cognitive decline.

While phyicians often encourage seniors to stay sharp by keeping an active lifestyle, maintaining a healthy diet and engaging in the community, few suggest that they should consider getting a dog. However, the latest research may prompt more seniors to consider canine companionship.

In the study, conducted by researchers from the University of Florida in Gainesville, 1,369 seniors underwent cognitive testing every other year for six years. The tests assessed numerical reasoning and verbal memory.

The data was categorized into two primary age groups; individuals aged 65 and older and those under 65, with the youngest participants being 50 years old. These groups were further subdivided based on dog ownership status: continuous ownership of a dog for over five years, ownership for less than five years and non-owners.

Analysis revealed that seniors who had owned a dog continuously for over five years scored highest in composite test scores among those aged 65 and above. Particularly in verbal memory, this group outperformed non-pet owners and those with less than five years of pet ownership. Interestingly, dog ownership did not significantly affect the scores of individuals under 65 years old.

These findings suggest that long-term dog ownership may offer noticeable cognitive health benefits to older adults.

Researchers are eager to pinpoint the specific factors underlying the observed benefits of dog ownership. While further studies are needed to establish causation, several hypotheses have emerged.

Why Does Dog Ownership Impact Cognitive Health?

One potential explanation centers on the physical activity inherent in dog ownership. Daily dog walks promote an active lifestyle. For those with friendly dogs, walks can also give rise to more opportunities for social interaction. While on a walk, people on the street might ask to pet their dog and visits to the dog park could lead to making a new friend in the community. Even for those with less energetic dogs, daily dog caregiving responsibilities such as letting the dog out, light play time and cleaning up after it involve physical movement.

Beyond physical benefits, researchers are studying how dog ownership positively impacts psychological wellbeing. Ample research has already shown that owning a dog can help individuals maintain a more positive perspective, reduce likelihood of depression and lower stress, but dogs are also particularly helpful in combating loneliness.

Loneliness, now recognized as a national epidemic, poses a significant risk to seniors and is associated with increased rates of cognitive decline. However, a study published in 2023 found that seniors who lived alone but owned a pet experienced slower rates of cognitive decline compared to those who lived alone without a pet. This result suggests that pet ownership might help mitigate some of the negative effects associated with living alone. Still, the researchers stated that more studies are needed to see how strong the effects is.

Other researchers are investigating the role of oxytocin, often referred to as the “love hormone.” Oxytocin, released during positive social interactions, is assocciated with feelings of trust, recognition, and strong relational bonds, including those with pets. Researchers have found that even sharing a lovingly gaze with your dog can increase levels of oxytocin. Further, studies suggest that oxytocin may enhance memories of positive social interaction, which may partially account for why long-term, bonded dog owners tend to do better on cognitive tests related to verbal memory.

With the projected doubling of Americans living with Alzheimer’s and other age-related cognitive disorders within the next 30 years, the importance of measures to preserve seniors’ cognitive health cannot be overstated. While further research is needed to fully understand the extent of the impact of dog ownership on older adults and their cognitive well-being, the established benefits to psychological health emphasize the significance of these companions in our lives.