KEY POINTS

  • Increasing longevity is the quest of any person
  • There are activities that could help in increasing the lifespan of a person
  • Dog ownership is said to help add more years to life

For many years, the human race has been on a quest for ways to improve longevity. Through scientific studies, researchers were able to point out unhealthy practices that you should get rid of to enjoy a longer life. Some of these include quitting smoking as the habit increases your risk of developing several serious ailments like cancer. Although avoiding known unhealthy lifestyle practices play a vital role in achieving longevity, there is a connection between enjoying simple past-times and longevity.

Own a Dog

A new study published in Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes reveals that owning a dog has been associated with living a longer life. It also showed that those who own dogs also have better cardiovascular activities. Those who live alone and have had bouts with a heart attack and stroke are advised to indulge in such activity.

dog ownership longevity lifestpan
dog ownership longevity lifestpan MabelAmber - Pixabay

The outcome in the published study was based on two other studies, which showed that dog ownership was associated with a reduction in the factors that play a role in cardiac arrest and other heart-related events.

As a result, since cardiac arrest and cardiovascular events are reduced, the mortality rate associated with these diseases is likewise reduced. Although these studies do not necessarily “prove” that dog ownership is linked to lower mortality rates, the results clearly suggest this.

Other Benefits Of Dog Ownership

According to previous studies, by owning a dog, social isolation is alleviated. It also helps improve physical activity and also helps in lowering blood pressure. They also found that this is very much evident among dog owners as compared to those who don’t own one.

The study looked into the data that was provided by the Swedish National Patient Register. Swedish residents aged between 40 to 85 years old became part of the study. They were the ones who experienced a stroke or a heart attack.

Out of these residents, it was found that those who owned a dog were said to have a lower risk of death thereafter. The possible reasons pointed out include decreased loneliness and depression. They also had better socialization because of their dogs. Furthermore, it was found that by owning a dog, they are better motivated to keep themselves active and physically fit.