A dog may quietly require all five before breakfast.
For many older adults, an animal is much more than a pet. It may be the reason to get out of bed, walk around the block, talk to a neighbor, and follow a familiar daily routine. And as families begin thinking about aging well, senior living and long-term care planning, that relationship may deserve more attention than we give it.
Research does not prove that owning a pet will make someone live longer. But it does suggest something important: animals may help older adults continue doing many of the things associated with healthier aging.
The Little Things May Add Up
A large review involving more than 3.8 million people found dog ownership was associated with a 24% lower risk of death from all causes and a 31% lower risk of cardiovascular death.
Researchers caution that the study was observational, meaning this study cannot prove dogs caused the difference, but it does make the idea worth considering.
There are little things as to why an animal might make a difference in someone's life.
Animals can also provide:
- Routine: Someone needs breakfast every morning.
- Movement: Walking, feeding, grooming and playing create activity.
- Purpose: Another living creature depends on you.
- Connection: Pets can start conversations with neighbors and other residents.
- Identity: Moving into senior living does not mean someone stops being “a dog person.”
That last benefit may be especially important.
A systematic review of 34 studies involving animals in care homes found themes including storytelling, caregiving, sensory engagement, relief from institutional life and, importantly, maintaining personal identity.
Animals May Help Change the Experience of Aging
The research on mental health is also encouraging. A 2026 systematic review and meta-analysis from the National Library of Medicine found animal-assisted interventions were associated with significant improvements in depressive symptoms and cognitive function among older adults, although researchers said stronger studies are still needed.
Think about what that could mean in everyday life:
Dad may not be excited about another organized “activity” at assisted living—but he may happily brush a dog.
Mom may resist going for a walk by herself—but happily take the dog outside for a brief walk.
A parent experiencing memory changes may struggle to carry on a conversation, yet immediately remember the Labrador they had when their children were young.
The animal is not simply providing entertainment. It may be giving someone another reason to participate in life.
Your Pet May Need to Be Part of Your Elder Law Plan
This is where a conversation about pets becomes a conversation about elder law planning.
Many times our beloved companions will outlive us.
If your animal is important to your quality of life, what happens if you become ill? Who takes the dog during a hospitalization? If you move into senior living, can Max the dog? Who pays veterinary bills if someone else assumes care? Who ultimately takes responsibility if you can no longer do so?
These questions can become part of a larger aging plan that considers:
- where and how you want to live,
- who can make decisions or provide help,
- how future care could be paid for,
- how assets can be preserved where possible, and
- how Medicaid fits into the plan if long-term care eventually requires it.
That is why elder law is broader than preparing a will or trust. An experienced elder law attorney helps families think well beyond transferring assets, and helps clients plan for a long life and how it may need to change as they live into their 80s and 90s.
Your dog may not guarantee that you live longer. But if that dog helps you move, connect, maintain routines and feel needed, the relationship may be an important part of aging well.
And if something matters to your quality of life, it deserves a place in the plan.
Attend our next LEGACY CARE Event at www.silvaslaw.com/events or schedule a personalized appointment with Silvas Law to discuss how estate planning, elder law planning, long-term care options, and Pre-Medicaid planning.
It's time to know how this planning can work together for your family's benefit, especially as so many people are living well beyond 80 years old.
Pets and Plans FAQs
Do pets help older adults stay healthy? Research says they may. In one poll, 64% of owners 50 to 80 said pets help them stay active. It shows a link, not proof.
Can a pet slow memory loss? It may for people who live alone. A 2023 study of 7,945 adults over 50 linked pet ownership to slower memory decline. More trials are needed.
Do therapy animals help nursing home residents? They can. A European trial found animal therapy sessions eased agitation and depression in nursing home residents.
Can I bring my pet to assisted living? Sometimes. Rules vary by community, so ask about pet policies before you choose.
Can I set aside money for my pet's care in Texas? Yes. Texas law allows a trust for an animal's care during your lifetime. Ask an attorney if a trust fits your needs/wishes.
Who cares for my pet if I'm hospitalized? Whoever you name ahead of time. A power of attorney and written pet instructions can make caring for your pet easy.
What is an elder law attorney? A lawyer who helps clients plan for aging and the care they may require: long-term care, Medicaid eligibility, decision-makers, care resources, and more, not just what happens after death.
Will Medicaid really look back five-years? Yes. Pre-Medicaid Planning early gives you more options and helps you avoid delays in assistance.
How do I start talking with my aging parent about "long-term care & aging"? Try starting with what they love. Ask who they would like to care for their pet if they were in the hospital.
What is the best first step? One comprehensive review. Attend our Legacy Care Event at www.silvaslaw.com/events or schedule an appointment by calling 817-264-7447.
For education only, not legal or medical advice. Laws vary by state.