How having pets could prevent owners from memory loss
A recent study has concluded that owning a pet may help owners reduce the chance of memory loss later in life.
The study, conducted by The University of Michigan Medical Centre, tested more than 1,300 people with an average age of 65.
Fifty-three per cent of the participants had pets at the time the study commenced, and almost a third of this group had owned their pet for more than five years.
The participants of the study were asked to partake in linguistic and numerical tests over a series of sessions to test their long and short term memory.
Owners of animals including dogs, cats and rabbits were found to have held onto more of their cognitive abilities when tracked over a six year period.
There is increasing evidence that stress can lead to cognitive decline, with experts believing that pets may help us to stay mentally sharp by reducing stress.
Those with dogs also benefit from regular walks as exercise is linked to a healthier brain.
Dr Tiffany Braley, who led the study, said, “Prior studies have suggested that the human-animal bond may have health benefits like decreasing blood pressure and stress.”
“Our results suggest pet ownership may also be protective against cognitive decline.”
While the results of the study seem overwhelmingly positive, there is yet to be any definitive research on the long-term clinical benefits of owning a pet.
Responding to the research, Dr Rosa Sancho, head of research at Alzheimer's Research UK, said, “Humans love their animals, and pets can be an important source of companionship and comfort throughout our lives.”
“While this US-based study linked owning a pet with some protection in memory and thinking decline, it can't tell us if these are long-term benefits, or whether owning a pet has any bearing on dementia risk.”
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