FAITHFUL COMPANIONS: HOW PETS TRANSFORM THE LIVES OF ELDERLY PEOPLE

Abstract

The research is interested in establishing relationships between public health and its connections with companion animals. Thus, the objective was to understand the possible benefits, challenges and impacts caused by the coexistence of small companion animals on the mental health and well-being of their elderly guardians. To carry out the study, a qualitative perspective was invested in through a literature review. Results showed that loneliness and low self-esteem were reduced, there was an improvement in mood and the development of social relationships, increasing the well-being of the elderly. Thus, it is understood that these companions add positively to their guardians and contribute to healthy aging. However, elderly people with more serious or fragile health problems present challenges, such as financial issues and additional obligations to their routine. These findings indicate that the integration of cohabitation and relationships with animals should be incorporated into health policies for the elderly, with a personalized approach. This study recommends future research with longitudinal cohorts and quantitative studies to complement and expand the results obtained in this article, so that the benefits of living together with animals on the mental health and well-being of the elderly can be achieved.