How pet ownership could actually benefit your health in retirement

From keeping active to having someone to curl up with on the sofa, pets can enhance our lives in many ways.

It comes as no surprise, then, that the UK is a nation of pet lovers. According to UK Pet Food, an estimated 60% of UK households are home to a pet. That’s a total of 36 million pets, including around 13.5 million dogs and 12.5 million cats.

In fact, a recent study suggests that pets could bring even greater benefits later in life. As reported by the Guardian, research has linked dog and cat ownership to a slower cognitive decline in late adulthood – potentially making it a valuable lifestyle choice in retirement.

So, find out about the benefits of sharing your home with a furry companion, and why you might want to make pet ownership part of your retirement plan.

Owning a dog or cat can provide stimulation that slows cognitive decline

In a study spanning an 18-year period, researchers examined the impact of pet ownership on cognitive decline in adults aged 50 and above.

The research specifically studied four different species. Interestingly, they each returned different results.

Dogs

Overall, the study found that dog owners benefited from a sharper memory, both short- and long-term. The Guardian also cites research showing that interacting with dogs triggered prefrontal brain activity, increased emotional arousal, and strengthened attentional processes.

Cats

The 18-year study demonstrated a positive link between cat ownership and a slower decline in verbal fluency. Their unpredictable nature has also been found to activate the prefrontal cortex and inferior frontal gyrus, which support emotional processing and cognitive control.

Birds and fish

Notably, the study was unable to find any connection between owning a bird or a fish and changes in cognitive decline. While owners report that these pets have a positive impact on their wellbeing, the research suggests birds and fish may provide less pronounced cognitive stimulation than dogs and cats.

Dogs and cats can bring distinct social benefits too, which may also support your cognitive health. By frequently interacting with your pets, you could supplement your wider social network and possibly increase your social stimulation.

Pet ownership can boost your physical fitness and enhance your mental wellbeing

In addition to cognitive stimulation and its associated preventative health benefits, the Independent reported on a poll of 1,000 dog and cat owners aged over 55 and 1,000 non-pet owners of the same age. The survey identified a range of further benefits to having a pet.

Keeping active

Walking a dog, playing with a cat, and carrying out daily tasks required for their care can all help keep you active. Of those surveyed, 45% said their pet is the main reason they exercise.

Improving heart health

The increased physical activity associated with owning a pet can help to reduce cholesterol and triglycerides, the fatty deposits that can cause heart disease. The research found that pet owners raised their heart rates five times a week, rather than three times for those without pets.

Reducing loneliness

Pets provide valuable companionship, frequent interactions, and affection, with half of the pet owners surveyed stating they never feel lonely due to their pet. They can also encourage socialising with other people, such as on walks or with similar pet owners.

Lowering blood pressure

By increasing serotonin and dopamine hormone levels, stroking a pet can help reduce stress and anxiety. 7 out of 10 pet owners said they felt more relaxed in their pet’s company.

Boosting happiness

According to the survey, pet owners are more likely to consider themselves successful, go on a dream holiday, and volunteer for a charity. 90% of pet owners believe their pet is good for their wellbeing.

Giving life purpose

Caring for a pet can give your day structure and help you get up in the morning. 31% of those surveyed said their pet gives them a purpose in life.

However, the poll also suggests that you’re more likely to retire early if you don’t own a pet. While your pet may not affect your ability to retire, it’s worth considering the future lifespan of a pet and factoring this into your plans.

If you do intend to share your retirement with a new furry companion, choose your species and breed carefully. Some will require more energy and space than others, so consider the lifestyle you want in retirement before bringing a pet home.

Plan for your dream retirement lifestyle

While pets can enhance your health and wellbeing in multiple ways later in life, pet ownership undeniably comes with downsides. Before committing to bringing a new pet into your home, it’s important to consider your retirement goals.

With food, insurance, vet bills, and daily care to pay for, pets can be expensive. If you’re keen to become a pet owner in retirement, you need to ensure those added expenses are accounted for in your financial plan.

Additionally, they may not fit into the lifestyle you want in retirement. If you hope to travel frequently or are excited to be free from routines and extra responsibilities once you’ve finished working, pet ownership might not be for you.

By establishing clear goals for retirement, and working with a financial planner to develop an effective plan, you can help achieve the lifestyle you’re dreaming of for later life. Whether that includes a furry friend or not, Caliber can help you plan for a fulfilling retirement.

Email contact@caliberfm.co.uk or call 01525 375386 to speak to one of our team today.

Please note

This article is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at retail clients only.

All information is correct at the time of writing and is subject to change in the future.