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Pet ownership and human-animal interaction in an aging population: rewards and challenges

Enders-Slegers, Marie-José and Hediger, Karin. (2019) Pet ownership and human-animal interaction in an aging population: rewards and challenges. Anthrozoös, 32 (2). pp. 255-265.

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Abstract

Older adults in most developed countries can now expect to live nearly 80 years without a significant disability. To maximize the quality of the years after retirement, societies, governments, and organizations are seeking strategies to help older adults maintain their mental and physical health, and retain their independence. Increasingly, the impact of pet ownership and other forms of human-animal interaction in healthy aging are discussed and investigated. In the Western world, more than 50% of households own one or more pets. The popularity of pets means they are well positioned to provide opportunities for companionship and nurturance. Since social networks tend to decrease as people age, pets may fill some gaps. While it is common to read about the benefits of pets and human-animal interactions, pet ownership in older age is also related to challenges and animal welfare concerns. This paper aims to briefly review the benefits and then explore risks and challenges related to pet ownership in older adulthood. In addition, we present strategies for maintaining beneficial pet ownership and human-animal interaction for older adults.
Faculties and Departments:07 Faculty of Psychology > Departement Psychologie > Health & Intervention > Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy (Hediger)
07 Faculty of Psychology > Departement Psychologie > Health & Intervention > Klinische Psychologie und Psychotherapie (Gaab)
09 Associated Institutions > Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute (Swiss TPH) > Department of Epidemiology and Public Health (EPH)
UniBasel Contributors:Hediger, Karin
Item Type:Article, refereed
Article Subtype:Research Article
Publisher:Taylor & Francis
ISSN:0892-7936
e-ISSN:1753-0377
Note:Publication type according to Uni Basel Research Database: Journal article
Language:English
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edoc DOI:
Last Modified:06 Jan 2023 16:52
Deposited On:01 Nov 2021 16:16

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