Evanston – September 30, 2026 -- A new Mather Institute study finds that older adults who age alone and own pets report significant boosts to physical activity, emotional wellbeing and social connection, with dog owners showing the strongest gains.

The online survey of 900 solo agers aged 55 and older found that 76% reported improved emotional wellbeing, 62% reported reduced stress and 45% reported increased physical activity. Nearly half said pets help reduce loneliness, and a third said pets led to more social interactions through daily walks and outdoor time.