Pets may help older adults who live alone stay active and connected, survey finds

Older adults who live alone and don't have regular support from family or friends may get some of the daily connection, routine, and movement they need from a dog or cat. That's according to new survey findings from Mather Institute, the research arm of Mather, a not-for-profit based in Evanston, Illinois.¹

The institute conducted an online survey of 900 "solo agers" aged 55 years and older. The release defines solo agers as people who live by themselves and don't routinely lean on relatives or friends for support. Respondents who owned pets reported benefits related to physical activity, wellbeing, and healthspan, which the release defines as the length of time a person stays in good health with a good quality of life. Some of the largest differences were reported among dog owners.¹

The findings are self-reported. The release does not say they have been published in a peer-reviewed journal.

Companionship, structure, and time outside

Among survey participants, 76% said their pets improved their emotional wellbeing, 62% said pets lowered their stress, and 45% said pets made them more physically active. Nearly half said their animals helped ease loneliness. About one-third said pets brought more social contact through daily walks and time outdoors. Participants also said pets gave their days more purpose and structure.¹

One participant in Mather's community programs said in the release that her pets keep her connected to the people around her.¹

"Having my two fur babies not only gives me joy but allows me to not feel alone," said BrendaLea Abbott, 66. "Without them, I would be outside much less and would not have the connection with next-door neighbors or people strolling in my neighborhood."

The release places the findings within a growing population of older adults who live alone. Citing US Census Bureau data, it reports that 27% of women and 21% of men aged 65 to 74 years live alone. Among those 75 years and older, the figures rise to 43% and 24%, respectively. The release also cites the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which reports that loneliness can increase a person's risk for heart disease, depression and anxiety, dementia, and earlier death.¹

Dogs, cats, and age

Activity varied by species. Dog owners reported the most physical activity, scoring 42% higher than respondents without pets. Respondents without pets also had the lowest average weekly activity. Many cat owners described short, frequent bursts of movement built into feeding, play, and household routines.¹

The emotional findings shifted with age. Among respondents aged 55 to 64 years, dog owners reported fewer depressive symptoms and better overall wellbeing than cat owners. Among respondents aged 75 years and older, the pattern reversed, and cat owners reported fewer depressive symptoms than dog owners.¹

Jennifer Smith, PhD, vice president of Mather Institute, said in the release that the results go beyond clinical care.¹

"One of the things this research reminds us is that healthspan is about more than medical care," Smith said. "Social connection, purpose and physical activity can make a world of difference—and pets can help support all three. Even a 10-minute walk with your dog can create opportunities to be active and connect with others."

The challenges of owning a pet later in life

The survey also found difficulties that come with owning a pet at an older age, including financial stress, the time pets require, and worry about who would care for an animal if the owner couldn't.¹

Based on these findings, Mather Institute recommends 3 steps:¹

• Name trusted caregivers or shelters to handle emergency pet care. Community-based foster programs can serve as short- or long-term options when an owner faces a health crisis.
• Choose pets whose energy level, size, and temperament fit the owner's lifestyle and health.
• Use volunteer programs that offer hands-on help, such as walking pets or helping with veterinary visits.

The study is part of a series of Mather Institute studies examining wellbeing and healthspan in older adults.¹

References

1. Researchers find pets may be one of the most powerful wellbeing tools for solo agers. News release. Mather. September 30, 2026. Accessed October 1, 2026. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/researchers-find-pets-may-be-one-of-the-most-powerful-wellbeing-tools-for-solo-agers-302895051.html