Pet Attachment and Physical Function in Older Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Friedmann Erika, Gee Nancy, Simonsick Eleanor, Resnick Barbara, Gurlu Merve, Shim Soyeon
Primary Institution: University of Maryland Baltimore
Hypothesis
Does pet attachment impact physical function in older adults?
Conclusion
Higher pet attachment is linked to slower deterioration in physical function among older adults.
Supporting Evidence
- Higher pet attachment was associated with slower deterioration in usual gait speed.
- Higher pet attachment was linked to slower deterioration in rapid gait speed.
- Higher pet attachment correlated with better overall physical performance.
- Among dog owners, attachment did not moderate deterioration in physical function.
- Among cat owners, higher attachment was associated with slower decline in physical well-being.
Takeaway
Having a pet and feeling attached to them can help older people stay active and healthy for longer.
Methodology
This study used longitudinal observational data from the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging, assessing pet attachment and physical function over 1-13 years.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in self-reported measures of pet attachment and physical function.
Limitations
The study focused only on pet owners and did not include non-pet owners for comparison.
Participant Demographics
Generally healthy community-dwelling adults aged 50-100 years, with a mean age of 68.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p=0.002, p=0.009, p=0.035
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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