Pets, Purpose and Wellbeing in Later Life

2026-11-04 · 5 min read

Ask a room full of older adults what gets them out of bed in the morning, and you'll hear plenty of answers: family, faith, work, volunteering. But you'll also hear a surprising number of people say something like, "My dog does. She won't let me sleep in."

In Aging Wildly, Anne Jensen describes ikigai as a reason to get up in the morning, and she names the animal waiting beside the bed as one possible source. She also lists "a beloved animal" among the many ways people can live fully after 60. It's a small detail, but it rings true for so many people.

Why pets can matter so much

A pet doesn't care how old you are. It cares that you're there. That simple fact can mean a great deal, especially after retirement, the loss of a spouse or a move to a new home.

Many pet owners describe benefits like these:

• A daily routine, with regular times for feeding, walks and play
• A reason to move, whether that's walking a dog or simply getting up to tend to a cat or bird
• Companionship and comfort, especially for people who live alone
• Easy conversations with neighbors, since dogs in particular are great icebreakers
• A sense of being needed, which is a powerful part of purpose

Pets aren't a cure for loneliness or health problems, and they aren't right for everyone. But for many people, an animal becomes a quiet anchor in the day.

A pet can open the door to people

One of the best gifts a pet can give is connection with other humans. Dog walkers tend to see the same faces at the same times. Pet owners swap advice at the vet's office. People join breed clubs, training classes and rescue groups.

Anne saw how much animals could brighten a room at her Aging Wildly event, where the zoo brought animals seniors could interact with. Animals have a way of making people smile, talk and relax. If you've been feeling cut off, read our post on beating loneliness after 60 for more ways to build connection.

Choosing the right pet for this stage of life

The best pet is the one that fits your life as it is now, not the life you had at 35. Ask yourself a few honest questions:

• How much energy do I have most days?
• Can I safely walk a dog in all seasons, including icy Colorado winters?
• Is my home set up for a pet, with a yard or easy outdoor access?
• Can I comfortably afford food, vet care and supplies?
• Who would care for the pet if I were sick, traveling or in the hospital?

Many people find that an older, calm adult dog or cat is a better match than a puppy or kitten. Older animals are often already trained, have settled personalities and need less constant attention. Shelters and rescue groups usually know their animals well and can help you find a good fit.

Small animals, birds and fish can also be wonderful companions with lower physical demands. And if mobility or balance is a concern, talk with your doctor about whether a pet that might get underfoot is a safe choice.

Ways to enjoy animals without owning one

Maybe owning a pet isn't right for you right now. That's okay. There are other ways to enjoy animals:

• Foster an animal for a few weeks through a local rescue
• Volunteer at an animal shelter, walking dogs or socializing cats
• Pet-sit for friends, neighbors or family
• Visit places where you can enjoy animals, like a zoo, farm or nature center
• Look into therapy animal visits at senior centers or care communities

Volunteering with animals can also be a source of purpose and friendship. Our post on encore careers and volunteering has more ideas for finding meaningful roles after 60.

Planning ahead for your pet

Responsible pet ownership includes thinking about the future. Make a simple plan for who will care for your pet if you can't. Write down your pet's routine, food, medications and vet information. Share it with a trusted friend or family member.

Some people also include their pets in their estate plans. If that interests you, talk with an attorney who handles estate planning. It's one more way to make sure the animal who has cared for you is cared for in return.

Purpose can have fur, feathers or fins

Purpose doesn't have to be grand. As Aging Wildly reminds us, sometimes it's simply something, or someone, who needs us. For many older adults, that someone has a wagging tail or a soft purr. Caring for an animal can turn an ordinary day into one with rhythm, warmth and meaning.

Your kaizen steps this week

• If you have a pet, write down their routine and care information and share it with one trusted person.
• If you're thinking about a pet, visit a local shelter or rescue just to look and ask questions. No pressure to adopt.
• Spend some time with an animal this week, whether it's a walk with a friend's dog or a visit to a pet-friendly park.

Keep reading

• Small Steps Toward Financial Confidence in Retirement — You don't need to fix all your finances at once. A few small, steady steps can help you feel more confident and in control.
• What 'Aging Wildly' Really Means, and Why It Isn't About Acting 30 — Aging wildly doesn't mean pretending you're 30. It means refusing the small box the world builds around older adults, and choosing a life that still feels like yours.
• Finding Your Ikigai After 60: A Reason to Get Up in the Morning — Ikigai is a Japanese idea about having a reason to get up in the morning. After 60, it often looks different than it did at 40, and that's a good thing.