Dog Ownership, Physical Activity, and Mental Health in Mid-to-Older Aged Adults: Findings From the HABITAT Cohort Study
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View abstract on PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.Dog ownership encourages physical activity in older adults, particularly through dog walking. This study found dog owners engaged in more walking and activity, supporting healthy aging.
Area Of Science
- Gerontology
- Public Health
- Behavioral Science
Background
- Dog ownership is recognized as a strategy to promote physical activity and healthy aging in adults.
- This study investigates the longitudinal impact of dog ownership and walking on physical activity and mental well-being in mid-to-older aged individuals.
Purpose Of The Study
- To examine the long-term effects of dog ownership and dog walking on physical activity levels.
- To assess the influence of dog ownership and walking on mental health outcomes in an aging population.
Main Methods
- Utilized data from the "How Areas in Brisbane Influence healTh and AcTivity" (HABITAT) cohort study (2007-2016).
- Employed linear mixed effects models to analyze self-reported data on dog ownership, walking, physical activity, and mental health over 9 years.
- Compared outcomes between males and females, adjusting for sociodemographic factors.
Main Results
- At baseline, dog owners of both genders reported significantly more weekly walking time (total and recreational) compared to non-owners.
- Dog ownership was associated with positive changes in physical activity over time for both females and males.
- Individuals who owned dogs but did not walk them showed similar physical activity levels to non-owners; dog walking had minor effects on mental health.
Conclusions
- Dog walking is crucial for maintaining regular physical activity among mid-to-older aged adults.
- Future research should incorporate device-based measures for physical activity and function to further understand dog ownership's health impacts.
- Investigating health changes associated with alterations in dog ownership status is recommended.
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