Future Directions for Research on Human-Animal Interaction in an Aging Population

Abstract

This final paper in the thematic issue, “Human–Animal Interaction and Healthy Human Aging,” highlights and distills key points from the series of papers and provides recommendations for improving and expanding Human–Animal Interaction (HAI) research into healthy human aging. This paper also focuses on translating research to practice and discussing important practical issues related to pet ownership or interaction with companion animals among older adults, and makes specific recommendations for researchers, caregivers, and professionals working with older adults. In addition to issues related to the human side of the equation, we make recommendations for protecting and insuring the health and wellbeing of the animals involved.