Harnessing Pets to Combat Loneliness and Social Isolation in Vulnerable Populations

A groundbreaking pilot program by researchers from Monash University explores how animals and animal-assisted activities can foster social connections and reduce feelings of loneliness among at-risk groups. The initiative is the first to utilize shared interests in pets to build bridges between young adults, including international students, and older adults residing in aged care facilities, addressing a widespread issue intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Social isolation and loneliness are linked to diminished well-being, poor physical health, and cognitive decline. These issues are particularly prevalent among young adult students and seniors in residential care. Recognizing this, Dr. Em Bould and her team co-designed the 'Pets and People' program through an action research approach that engaged both groups, alongside aged care staff.

The program involved 30 older adults from two Victorian aged care homes and 11 international university students who volunteered over an 18-week period. Participants met weekly for one hour, engaging in animal-related activities like arts and crafts, jigsaw puzzles, animal-themed bingo, and singing. The program incorporated live pets, robotic animals, and animals from staff and participants’ families, including Dr. Bould’s pet dog, Barney.

Evaluation metrics showed significant positive impacts: loneliness decreased from a score of 49.4 to 41.4 on the UCLA Loneliness scale, and health-related quality of life improved from 0.741 to 0.800 on the EuroQol-5 Dimension Instrument. Participants reported feelings of increased companionship and relaxation, with stories highlighting how the program alleviated loneliness and boosted mood.

Notably, the cost analysis indicated that each participant’s involvement cost approximately $237, with a favorable cost per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained at $4,017, well below common thresholds in healthcare expenditure. This highlights the program’s potential as a cost-effective strategy to improve well-being.

Building on these promising findings, Dr. Bould facilitated the expansion of the program, partnering with Fronditha Care, an aged care provider, to implement the initiative across multiple facilities. The organization’s leadership emphasized the role of pets in enhancing elder health and reducing isolation.

Ultimately, this innovative and low-cost approach demonstrates the potential for scaling animal-assisted interventions to mitigate social isolation, promote mental health, and enhance life quality across diverse community settings.

source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-04-power-pets-loneliness-social-isolation.html