Owning a Dog May Help Prevent Dementia: Research
As we age, the risk of developing dementia increases, leaving millions of people around the world struggling with memory loss and cognitive decline. While there is no certain way to prevent or cure dementia, a growing body of research suggests that owning a dog may be a simple yet effective way to reduce the risk of developing this condition.
A recent study conducted in Japan, involving over 11,000 adults, found that older adults who own dogs are less likely to develop disabling dementia compared to those who do not own dogs. The study, published in the journal PLOS Medicine, is one of the largest and most comprehensive to date to investigate the link between dog ownership and dementia risk.
The researchers analyzed data from the Japan Gerontological Evaluation Study, a nationwide survey that aimed to assess the physical and mental health of older adults in Japan. The study participants were aged 70-104 years old and were followed for an average of 2.5 years. The researchers used a standardized questionnaire to assess the participants’ cognitive function and dementia status at the beginning and end of the study period.
The results showed that dog owners were 24% less likely to develop disabling dementia compared to non-dog owners. This means that for every 100 dog owners, 24 fewer would develop disabling dementia. The protective effect of dog ownership was even stronger for those who walked their dogs regularly, with a 36% reduced risk of developing disabling dementia.
But what is it about dog ownership that may be helping to reduce the risk of dementia? The researchers suggest that several factors may be at play. For example, dog ownership may provide daily care and companionship, which can help to reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation. This is particularly important for older adults, as social isolation is a known risk factor for dementia.
Dog ownership may also provide opportunities for physical activity, which is known to be beneficial for brain health. Walking a dog, for example, can help to improve cardiovascular health, boost mood, and reduce the risk of falls and other mobility-related injuries. The researchers found that dog owners who walked their dogs regularly were more likely to engage in other forms of physical activity, such as gardening or swimming, which can also help to reduce the risk of dementia.
In addition to the physical and social benefits of dog ownership, the researchers suggest that the emotional bond between humans and dogs may also play a role in reducing the risk of dementia. Dogs have been shown to have a positive impact on mental health, reducing stress and anxiety and increasing feelings of happiness and well-being. This emotional support may help to reduce the risk of dementia by promoting a healthy and resilient brain.
While the study found a significant link between dog ownership and dementia risk, it is important to note that the relationship is likely to be complex and influenced by a range of factors. Other studies have found that dog ownership may have a positive impact on cognitive function and mental health, but the evidence is not yet conclusive.
Despite these limitations, the study provides strong evidence that dog ownership may be a valuable strategy for reducing the risk of dementia. As the global population ages, the prevalence of dementia is expected to increase dramatically, with over 15 million people worldwide living with the condition. Any simple and effective way to reduce the risk of dementia is likely to be welcomed by healthcare professionals and individuals alike.
So, if you’re considering bringing a new furry friend into your family, you may want to consider the potential benefits for your brain health. With over 11,000 adults involved in the study, the evidence suggests that owning a dog may be a simple way to reduce your risk of developing disabling dementia.
Source:
https://thepfc.club/blogs/news/can-owning-a-dog-help-prevent-dementia
