A longitudinal study shows that owning dogs or cats is linked to slower cognitive decline in older adults. Researchers analyzed 18 years of data and assessed cognitive functioning, revealing that dog and cat owners maintained better cognitive health than non-pet owners. The study indicates that physical activity, routine, and emotional ties with pets contribute to these protective effects. In contrast, ownership of birds or fish did not correlate with significant cognitive benefits, highlighting the impact of different types of pets on mental health.
A new longitudinal study links dog and cat ownership with slower cognitive decline in older adults, while fish and bird ownership does not show similar benefits.
The research indicates that benefits from pet ownership stem from physical activity, routine, and emotional connections common to possessing dogs and cats.
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