Why pets make the holidays happier for older adults, according to a new study

The holidays are often painted as a season of joy with family gatherings, festive decorations, and togetherness. For many older adults, this time of year can also highlight loneliness, reduced social contact, or the emotional weight of major life transitions. A new report from the Mather Institute shows that pets may offer a surprising source of happiness, well-being, and connection for people later in life.

The Enduring Power of the Human and Animal Bond

Human and animal relationships go back more than 32,000 years. Today, more than half of adults over 50 own a pet. The report describes how these relationships continue to support emotional and social well-being in ways that feel especially important during the holiday season.

Pets provide companionship, unconditional acceptance, and a sense of responsibility. These qualities can help reduce isolation and give older adults a feeling of purpose. The daily presence of a pet often adds routine and structure, which can be grounding during a time of year that can feel emotionally challenging.

Physical Health Benefits That Support Aging Well

The report outlines several physical health benefits connected to pet ownership, especially for dog owners. Walking a dog can lower BMI, create fewer limitations in daily activities, and result in fewer doctor visits. Regular activities such as getting out of bed, going outside, and moving consistently help maintain independence and resilience. This can be particularly valuable during winter months, when motivation to stay active is often harder to find.

Pet care also brings predictability. Feeding times, walks, and grooming create a stable routine that can help older adults feel more anchored and engaged with daily life.

“Pets provide companionship, unconditional acceptance, and a sense of responsibility. These qualities can help reduce isolation and give older adults a feeling of purpose.”

Psychological Well-Being of Purpose, Mood, and Reduced Depression

The psychological benefits of pet ownership are meaningful. Many older adults take better care of themselves because they feel responsible for their pet’s well-being. This sense of responsibility helps create a sense of purpose and strengthens proactive habits.

The report also describes how pets can influence mood, support relaxation, increase positive emotions, and reduce stress. Findings differ by gender, pet type, and the strength of the emotional bond. Some older adults with strong attachments to their dogs or cats report lower levels of depression. For others, spending time with pets simply brings joy and relaxation.

Notably, the report notes that older adults do not need to own a pet to receive these emotional benefits. Even small interactions, such as volunteering at a shelter or spending time with a friend’s pet, can increase happiness and positive feelings.

Social Well-Being of Connection, Interaction, and Reduced Loneliness

Pets are particularly helpful for older adults who want more social connections. According to the report, pets can reduce loneliness, increase life satisfaction, and support emotional comfort. Dog owners often experience more casual interactions while walking their dogs or visiting parks. These small social moments help break up feelings of isolation.

The report highlights findings from a five-year study of Life Plan Community residents. Pet owners, especially dog owners, felt more socially connected in the years after the initial survey. These greater social ties were linked with increased happiness and life satisfaction, and with reduced loneliness. These patterns held true even during parts of the COVID-19 pandemic, when isolation increased for many people.

You Do Not Need to Adopt a Pet to Benefit

One of the most reassuring takeaways from the report is that owning a pet is not the only path to these benefits. Older adults can still enjoy positive emotional and social outcomes by interacting with animals in low-commitment ways. These include volunteering at shelters, visiting dog parks, and spending time with pets owned by friends, neighbors, or family members.

A Season of Connection with Help from Pets

The holidays can be a joyful time, but they can also be lonely. Pets offer comfort, routine, purpose, and opportunities for connection. Whether through ownership or simple interaction, spending time with animals can help older adults experience more joy and a greater sense of well-being during the holiday season.

Note: Christina Daves is a TV lifestyle contributor and the host of the award-winning podcast Living Ageless and Bold, where she celebrates women over 50 who are rewriting the rules of midlife.