Older people & companion animals; conference 2005

New research published by the Society for Companion Animal Studies (SCAS) has found that older people with pets felt more satisfied with life than those without companion animals.

Those questioned had an average age of 75, and lived in sheltered housing units in and around London. Regular contact with family was more common amongst those who did not have pets, so in many cases pet companionship made up and large and important part of companionship for the respondents.

The study indicated that older pet owners consistently scored higher than non-pet owners in all areas involving self care, getting about the home, relating to others and life satisfaction.

Dr June McNicholas,, a psychologist who has spent 15 years researching the effects of pet ownership on human health, supervised the research.

McNicholas said: “The choice to own pets is an important part of a chosen lifestyle which can contribute to health and happiness if permitted, but to discontent if it is denied. There is a strong consensus of opinion among older people, vets, animal shelters and health professionals that the process of growing older should not simply be seen in terms of giving up what were once important lifestyle choices. Rather the focus should be on maintaining those aspects that can be preserved intact. With help, pet ownership can be one of them.”

SCAS, together with Age Concern, are holding a conference entitled "Older people and companion animals: Enhancing quality of life" on Wednesday 4 May 2005, at the Charity Centre, London.

To reserve a place at the conference you can call SCAS on 01993 825 597, email info@scas.org.uk or visit their site via the link below

www.scas.org.uk

New research published by the Society for Companion Animal Studies (SCAS) has found that older people with pets felt more satisfied with life than those without companion animals.

Those questioned had an average age of 75, and lived in sheltered housing units in and around London. Regular contact with family was more common amongst those who did not have pets, so in many cases pet companionship made up and large and important part of companionship for the respondents.

The study indicated that older pet owners consistently scored higher than non-pet owners in all areas involving self care, getting about the home, relating to others and life satisfaction.

Dr June McNicholas,, a psychologist who has spent 15 years researching the effects of pet ownership on human health, supervised the research.

McNicholas said: “The choice to own pets is an important part of a chosen lifestyle which can contribute to health and happiness if permitted, but to discontent if it is denied. There is a strong consensus of opinion among older people, vets, animal shelters and health professionals that the process of growing older should not simply be seen in terms of giving up what were once important lifestyle choices. Rather the focus should be on maintaining those aspects that can be preserved intact. With help, pet ownership can be one of them.”

SCAS work in partnership with The Blue Cross. For more information see the website: