Pets bring joy and challenges to older owners: Experts say small dogs, cats best fit

Lee Eun-ju, professor of geriatrics / Courtesy of Asan Medical Center

"Thanks to my dog, I started walking again."

"I make sure to go for walks twice a day. I used to avoid walking because of knee pain, but thanks to my dog, I’m moving again."

For 78-year-old Kim Young-ja, who lives in Seoul’s Mapo District, her life changed after she lost her husband three years ago and battled long-term depression. On the recommendation of a friend, she adopted a small dog named Kong from a shelter. Although at first she found caring for the dog burdensome, her days soon became livelier. Walking Kong allowed her to greet neighbors, feel less lonely at home and return from outings with the comforting thought that someone was waiting for her. In fact, Kong's companionship often felt more reassuring than distant family members.

As Korea’s population ages, various strategies are being explored to improve the quality of life and mental health of older adults, and pets are increasingly part of the solution. Many seniors, like Kim, have found renewed health and vitality through their pets.

Studies have shown that seniors who own pets are less likely to suffer from depression and report lower stress levels than those without pets. For older adults living alone, pets often serve as emotional companions, easing loneliness and feelings of isolation.

Interacting with pets also promotes physical activity among seniors. Active pets like dogs encourage regular walks, helping to improve cardiovascular health, maintain muscle strength, prevent falls and support cognitive function. Structured routines — such as feeding the pet in the morning, going for walks, taking a nap and playing in the evening — also boost a sense of purpose, reminding seniors they still have someone to care for.

However, pet ownership is not the right solution for every senior. One 85-year-old man surnamed Park developed severe osteoarthritis and suffered a hip fracture after falling while walking his medium-sized dog. He said he now fears being around his pet. Beyond physical risks, there are financial and emotional burdens, such as costs for pet food and vaccinations, and the grief of losing a beloved animal.

So how can older adults safely enjoy pet ownership? Experts recommend several steps. First, it is important to match the pet to the person's physical, cognitive and health status. Smaller dogs, cats, birds or ornamental fish, which require less intensive care, are generally more suitable than large, energetic dogs. Second, seniors should ensure they have someone who can take over pet care in case of sudden hospitalization or death. Third, there should be social and economic support systems, including subsidies for veterinary care, pet food and vaccinations for low-income seniors. Finally, psychological counseling, pet end-of-life care services and grief support for bereaved pet owners should be considered.

While pets can bring emotional comfort, physical health benefits and social interaction to seniors, they can also bring challenges such as physical strain and financial burden. Therefore, pet ownership should be a shared responsibility — planned and supported by individuals, families and society alike.

As Kim puts it, "It’s not me taking care of Kong — it’s Kong who helped me start living again." The joy and responsibility of pet ownership for older adults is something that must be embraced collectively.

This article from the Hankook Ilbo, the sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by a generative AI system and edited by The Korea Times.