Abstract
As the population ages, the risk of loneliness increases. Loneliness is linked to a decrease in overall health and performance in older adults. The purpose of this study was to explore loneliness in relation to pet ownership. This research investigates alternative ways to decrease loneliness in this specific population, which can advance practice development of OT by providing practitioners a reliable method when addressing older adults who live in their communities.
Primary Author and Speaker: Dahlia Castillo
Additional Authors and Speakers: Destiny Rodriguez, Ja’Nice Wyatt, Valeria Alvarez
As the population ages, the risk of loneliness increases. Research indicates that pet ownership might decrease reports of loneliness in elders. The purpose of this study was to explore loneliness and pet ownership in adults 65 years and older using a cross sectional survey methodology. Inclusion criteria consisted of older adults age 65 years or older. The survey was administered to 103 participants at the Aging to Perfection Senior Expo and were given incentives when they finished the survey.. Demographic questions were included in addition to 3 questions from the UCLA Loneliness Scale and 2 questions about pet ownership. Preliminary results concluded no statistically significant relationship between self-reported loneliness in pet owners and non pet owners. A statistically significant relationship was found between mental illness, mental health medications, and an increase in self-reported loneliness. Participants that indicated having a mental illness, taking tranquilizers, medications for depression, and medications for anxiety had higher loneliness scores. In conclusion, there was no significant relationship found between pet ownership and loneliness. A relationship was found between mental health and loneliness. Indicating the increasing impact that mental health concerns can negatively impact the older adult population. The growing aging population is of large concern to health professionals specifically Occupational Therapists. There is a lack of evidence-based interventions for this population; further interventions should focus on reducing negative effects associated with loneliness.
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