This is especially true for older people. A new study conducted by American scientists showed that pet owners have better cognitive functions (thinking, speech, etc.) over time than others. Read more about the results in the article.Discuss
In earlier studies, scientists have argued that pets help reduce blood pressure and get rid of stress. In a new study by experts from the University of Michigan Medical Center in Ann Arbor (USA), another aspect was added to this: the prevention of cognitive decline. The latter include, for example, speech, orientation in space, thinking, etc.
The experts analyzed data on 1369 older people, whose average age was 65 years. This data was taken from the Health and Retirement Study, where people took several cognitive tests. Participants included both current pet owners and those who have had pets for five or more years.
According to the results of the analysis, it was found that over the course of six years, cognitive performance declined more slowly among pet owners. So, their overall cognitive score was on average 1.2 points higher than those who lived without pets. The benefits were also greater among blacks, college-educated participants, and men.
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Source: Medical Xpress