Interaction with companion animals has become a powerful tool to improve mental health, especially in older people and young individuals in vulnerable situations. Beyond affection, the bond with pets can be key in preventing social isolation, a growing problem that affects millions worldwide.
Social isolation, defined by the World Health Organization as a lack of meaningful relationships, can lead to chronic loneliness, with negative effects on physical, emotional, and cognitive health. Faced with this challenge, the presence of an animal in daily life emerges as an accessible and effective way to provide companionship, routines, and emotional connection.
A study conducted in Australia evaluated a pilot program that promoted weekly encounters between elderly adults and university students with the participation of animals.
Over 18 weeks, these recreational spaces with live pets, themed activities, and robotic animals facilitated dialogue, boosted the self-esteem of participants, and reduced scientifically measured levels of loneliness.
The impact of companion animals on health: pets as allies against depression.
Pawsome Wellbeing: Proven Benefits
Various scientific studies confirm that pets not only help combat loneliness, but also reduce stress, improve sleep quality, promote physical activity, and stimulate cognitive functions. In older adults, living with an animal is associated with fewer episodes of depression, lower risk of cardiovascular diseases, and an overall better health status.
Caring for a pet also introduces responsibility and structure into daily life: walks, feeding, hygiene, and veterinary care. This commitment creates a healthy routine, especially valuable in old age or in emotionally vulnerable contexts.
Moreover, in an increasingly “pet-friendly” society, interacting with animals promotes socialization. From walking groups in parks to themed gatherings, the bond with pets becomes an opportunity to create emotional networks and community belonging.
Pets, ultimately, are much more than companions: they are good allies against loneliness. They are stimulus, comfort, connection, and health. Faced with a world that often isolates, their presence reminds us of the essential: daily affection can be as therapeutic as any medicine.
The benefits of pets for health.
A Bond that Benefits Both
While the beneficial aspects of pet companionship for humans have been demonstrated and how they are good allies against loneliness, it has also been proven that the presence of humans can be beneficial for animals.
The human-animal bond can have a positive impact on the well-being of both, including a reduction in stress and anxiety, and benefits for physical and mental health:
- Reduction of stress and anxiety: Human companionship can provide a sense of security and comfort, which can help reduce stress and anxiety in animals.
- Improvement of health: Physical contact with humans, such as petting or hugging, can release hormones that have positive effects on health, such as reducing blood pressure and heart rate.
- Increased socialization: Human companionship can help animals socialize and feel safer in their environment.
- Greater satisfaction: Animals can experience greater satisfaction and happiness when in the company of their humans, especially if they receive the care and attention they need.
