Stats: 83% of older adults say a pet gives a sense of purpose

Having a pet may help many middle-aged and older adults with their health or well-being, according to a recent University of Michigan National Poll on Healthy Aging. But the costs of caring for those pets strains the budgets of 31% of pet owners ages 50 and older, the poll showed. And 33% of respondents over 50 who don’t have pets say such costs are a main reason why. It’s something active-aging management may want to be aware of, and perhaps develop strategies to help residents and members who might benefit most from a pet, but are struggling with costs.