Pet Ownership Patterns and Successful Aging Outcomes in Community Dwelling Older Adults.

ABSTRACT: Introduction: Diminishing cognitive and physical functions, worsening psychological symptoms, and increased mortality risk and morbidity typically accompany aging. The aging population's health needs will continue to increase as the proportion of the population aged > 50 years increases. Pet ownership (PO) has been linked to better health outcomes in older adults, particularly those with chronic conditions. Much of the evidence is weak. Little is known about PO patterns as people age or the contribution of PO to successful aging in community-dwelling older adults. This study examines PO patterns among healthy community-dwelling older adults and the relationship of PO to cognitive and physical functions and psychological status. Methods: Participants in the Baltimore Longitudi

SUBMITTER: Friedmann E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7330097 | biostudies-literature | 2020

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature