Scientists Discover: Having a Pet Could Save Your Brain - But Only If You Live Alone
17Let's be honest, there are many keys to healthy aging, but let's have a look at what cats - and dogs - might help with.
What is really being said here is connection is crucial to a human being. Whether it's cats, dogs, or even people (providing the people don't bring on too much stress). We are wired for connection and having connection to other mammals is a biological necessity for thriving.
Recent research shows that owning a pet, particularly a cat or a dog, can help protect against cognitive decline in older adults. A large 2025 study published in Scientific Reports followed people aged 50 to 99 over an 18-year period. It found that dog owners experienced a slower decline in memory recall, while cat owners maintained stronger verbal fluency and delayed recall compared to those without pets.
This builds on a 2023 study that looked specifically at adults living alone. It found that pet ownership was linked to slower decline in memory and verbal fluency in this group, suggesting that the companionship of a pet may help counteract the cognitive risks of social isolation. The same benefits were not observed in people who lived with others.
Scientists believe pets provide these benefits by reducing stress, improving emotional well-being, and encouraging routines that support brain health. Petting a cat or dog, for example, can lower blood pressure and release feel-good endorphins, while dog walking offers built-in physical activity and social interaction. These factors together may explain why cats and dogs in particular seem to support brain function over time.