Pets Can Help Older Adults’ Health and Well Being, but May Strain Budgets Too

A new University of Michigan National Poll on Healthy Aging finds that pets play an important role in the lives of adults over 50, with many saying pets provide purpose, reduce stress, and foster connection. But rising costs mean more older adults say pet ownership strains their budgets or keeps them from having a pet. The findings highlight a growing tension between companionship and affordability.