Introduction: We are a rapidly aging society and there are more and more elderly people who want to spend their old age in their home environment. Departure of relatives, loss of life, health problems, decline in physical resistance, strength and capacity are factors that negatively affect the quality of their lives. Older people often also experience loneliness, depression, loss of sense and confidence in themselves. Purpose: We investigated what pets mean to elderly people leaving in home environment and how they contribute to their quality of life. Methods: It was used a qualitative research approach.. The study included 5 elderly people who have an animal in the domestic environment or are in regular contact with it. We conducted a qualitative analysis of the data we collected through in-depth interviews. Results: Qualitative analysis has formed two main themes: generally about pets with two subcategories and the importance of pets to the elderly - the positives and negatives of the three subcategories. We have found that older people feel less isolated because of the pet. Elderly people, due to animal care, live a more active and quality life and are more motivated to carry out daily activities. Discussion and conclusion: Elderly people who have pets in their life are more physically active, less lonely, happier and live a more fulfilling life.
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