Researchers Find Pets May be One of the Most Powerful Wellbeing Tools for Solo Agers
New Mather Institute Study Provides Insights into How Pet Ownership Can Dramatically Elevate Physical, Psychological and Social Wellbeing
EVANSTON, Ill., Sept. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- As the population of solo agers continues to grow and face risks of loneliness and isolation, pets are proving to serve as a vital, nontraditional support system to help improve healthspan and wellbeing.
A new study from Mather Institute provides evidence that older adults who are solo aging (i.e. who live alone and don't regularly have family or friends to support them) may benefit from owning pets. Specifically, these pet-owning solo agers reported a range of benefits related to physical activity, wellbeing and healthspan, or the length of time a person is in good health and has a good quality of life, with some of the strongest differences observed among dog owners.
Pet ownership supports independence and bridges gaps in social connection, purpose and emotional support older adults often encounter. A key finding from the online survey of 900 solo agers aged 55 and better is how their pets help counter social isolation and loneliness.
Older adults aging alone are a fast-growing segment of the population, putting them at risk for loneliness and isolation. As adults age, their daily social connections and support systems can shrink as children build families of their own or friends move away. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, among individuals aged 65 to 74, 27% of women and 21% of men live solo, and these numbers soar to 43% and 24%, respectively, for those 75 and better. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that loneliness can increase a person's risk for heart disease, depression and anxiety, dementia and earlier death.
Survey participant key findings:
- Nearly half said pets help reduce loneliness, while a third said pets lead to more social interactions through activities such as daily walks and regular outdoor time.
- 76% reported improved emotional wellbeing, 62% reported reduced stress and 45% reported increased physical activity.
- Participants said pets enrich daily life, providing a greater sense of purpose and structure.
Regular physical activity is one of the strongest predictors of healthspan, by preserving cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength and mobility. Strong social relationships are also a powerful determinant of healthspan, linked to lower morality risk, slower biological aging and improved mental health.
"One of the things this research reminds us is that healthspan is about more than medical care," said Jennifer Smith, vice president of Mather Institute. "Social connection, purpose and physical activity can make a world of difference – and pets can help support all three. Even a 10-minute walk with your dog can create opportunities to be active and connect with others. For many, pets also provide companionship and emotional support. We hope this report highlights the meaningful role a furry friend can play in aging well."
Other notable findings from the pets and solo aging report include:
- Dog owners reported the highest physical activity, scoring 42% higher than pet-free adults. Many cat owners describe frequent short bursts of movement, including feeding, play sessions and household routines, that encourage healthy daily habits.
- Solo agers without pets averaged the lowest weekly activity, highlighting how pets create opportunities for daily movement.
- Dog owners aged 55 to 64 reported fewer symptoms of depression and better overall wellbeing compared to cat owners.
- For those aged 75 and better, cat owners reported lower levels of depressive symptoms compared to their dog-owning peers.
"Having my two fur babies not only gives me joy but allows me to not feel alone," said BrendaLea Abbott, 66, a Mather community programs participant. "Without them, I would be outside much less and would not have the connection with next-door neighbors or people strolling in my neighborhood. Even when my fur babies are not with me, they connect me to others as I purchase food, treats and toys and strike up conversations with pet owners in the pet store."
The report also reveals age-related challenges pet owners face, including financial stress, time commitment and backup care worries. Drawing on these findings, Mather Institute recommends practical ways to enhance resources for older adults who choose pet companionship, including:
- Designate trusted caregivers or shelters for emergency pet care. Community-based foster programs can provide short- or long-term solutions, ensuring pets are safe when owners face health crises.
- Choose the right pets that match energy levels, size and temperament of the pet owner's lifestyle and health.
- Find volunteer-based programs that provide practical, hands-on help, from walking pets to assisting with vet visits.
The pets and solo aging study is just one of a series of studies conducted by Mather Institute to advance wellbeing and healthspan. Additional research topics have included the benefits of gardening for older adults, Generation X in the workplace and aging well across cultures.
To download this year's full pets and solo aging report, visit MatherInstitute.com.
Mather has a free monthly online pet club for adults 55 and better where attendees discuss pet-related topics and learn new tips. For more information and to join, visit Mather.com. FOR CHICAGO ONLY: Chicago residents 55 and better can join Mather's free PAW Packs program, which delivers monthly pet food directly to their doorstep. Since August 2025, Mather has donated more than 102,000 pounds to 1,600 older adult pet owners at no cost. For more information and to register, visit Mather.com.
About Mather
Based in Evanston, Illinois, Mather is a not-for-profit organization founded in 1941 that is dedicated to a vision of changing the way society views older adults. Mather creates Ways to Age WellSM through programs, places and residences for today's older adults. These include developing and operating communities that support older adults in pursuing wellness and fulfillment; sparking creativity and connections for older adults in Chicagoland and beyond; and through Mather Institute, conducting research and incubating innovation to help all live and age well.
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