Avian companionship in alleviation of depression, loneliness, and low morale of older adults in skilled rehabilitation units

Psychol Rep. 1996 Feb;78(1):339-48. doi: 10.2466/pr0.1996.78.1.339.

Abstract

To assess effects of a companion bird on the depression, morale, and loneliness of 40 older adults in a skilled rehabilitation unit, self-reported measures of depression, loneliness, and morale were completed on admission and 10 days later. With the presence of a companion bird the experimental group (n = 20) showed a significant decrease in depression but none in morale or loneliness from the control group (n = 20) who were without a bird. Use of a companion bird may lessen negative effects of change of residence for older adults.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Animals
  • Birds*
  • Depression / rehabilitation*
  • Female
  • Human-Animal Bond*
  • Humans
  • Loneliness*
  • Male
  • Morale*
  • Personality Inventory
  • Rehabilitation Centers*
  • Treatment Outcome